Seed quality issues are a common challenge for flower growers. With numerous flower seeds available in the market, it's essential to pay attention to the production date and shelf life indicated on the packaging, whether the seeds are domestic or imported. Avoid purchasing seeds without proper labeling, as they may be of poor quality or even expired. Expired seeds often lose their viability and fail to germinate properly.
When buying seeds, it's also important to have a basic understanding of the plant type. For example, know if the seeds you're purchasing are for annuals, perennials, spring-blooming, or autumn-blooming flowers. Generally, seeds sown in spring will bloom in summer and autumn, while those sown in autumn typically flower in spring and summer (except for woody plants). If the sowing time is off and there’s no controlled environment for out-of-season cultivation, achieving the desired flowering results can be difficult. It's especially risky to buy seeds for plants that you've never grown before.
Another common issue is inadequate seed treatment. Different types of flower seeds require different pre-treatment methods. Easy-to-germinate seeds, like some red-flowered varieties, can be soaked in warm water at around 40°C for 24 hours. Hard-seeded plants such as asparagus, peonies, and certain grasses benefit from soaking in hot water for about 48 hours before sowing. Some species, like the pearl plum and bauhinia, can be directly sown after soaking in warm water for 24 to 48 hours. Others, such as cloves and wax apples, need a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Some seeds, like those of tassels and peonies, have double dormancy, requiring a high-temperature stage of 25°C to 32°C for 1 to 2 months before they can germinate.
Temperature plays a crucial role in seed germination. In addition to adequate moisture, most dry seeds require specific temperature ranges to germinate. For instance, cruciferous bulbs need temperatures between 5°C and 20°C, while Gerbera prefers a moderate temperature of 20°C to 25°C. Primrose seeds require a temperature range of 15°C to 18°C. If the temperature is too high or too low, it can negatively affect germination rates, leading to seed rot and reduced seedling survival.
Sowing timing is another critical factor. Large, oily, or hard seeds, such as those of roses, pomegranates, and magnolias, are best sown in the fall. Smaller seeds with thin coats, like chrysanthemums, impatiens, and araceae, should be sown in late spring. Seeds that require higher temperatures for germination, such as cyclamen and primroses, should be sown immediately after they mature, ideally in early summer.
The quality of the sowing medium is also important. Whether using open-field or pot sowing, the soil must be loose, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal. Sowing methods include broadcasting, drilling, and spot sowing. Before planting, the soil should be thoroughly watered, and a plastic cover can help retain moisture. The sowing depth is generally about two and a half times the seed size. Small seeds like cockscomb, August chrysanthemum, and cineraria should be mixed with fine sand before sowing. After germination, keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering, which can damage delicate roots and seedlings.
Light is another key factor in successful seed germination. Proper lighting helps raise soil temperature and encourages seed coat breaking and root development. This not only affects the germination rate but also determines the strength and health of the seedlings. From sowing to transplanting, ensure that plants receive adequate light, gradually increasing from dark to low light and finally to natural sunlight. This transition supports healthy growth and better adaptation to outdoor conditions.
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