Germination testing - first time and ?s

[tam91]

I've been reading, but just to be sure - in order to do some germination testing, I put 10 seeds in a folded damp paper towel, inside a sealed ziploc bag. I put it where it should be warm-ish (heat register nearby, not directly on it of course).

Is that right?

How soon might I see sprouts? And when do I consider it's as good as it will be - 10 days?

Thanks again from the newbie!

[Heritage]

Sounds good... I usually place the seeds on top of the damp paper towel(s) inside of the baggie (instead of between the towel layers.) That way you don't have to unfold/refold the paper towel or open the baggie to check germination.

At 70-75 degrees all should sprout well within the 10 days you mentioned, unless the seed is too old or has been stored improperly. Some varieties may take longer, but, personally, I have never had any variety take longer than 10 days.

[TZ-OH6]

You should see root tips in 3-4 days (maybe 2 for quick ones) . I use thick folded toilet paper and don't cover the top. TP holds a lot more water so doesn't need the top sheet over the seeds. You can use a plastic wrap covered bowl or plastic clamshell cookie box, which is easier than pulling things out of a ziplock for observation, IMO.

[amideutch]

Tam, I use 1X4 brown paper coffee filters (Unbleached) dampened with water and put in a ziplock as you have done. Normally for me at 70-75 deg F it takes 7-10 days.
Nice thing about the coffee filters is you can put them in front of a light to check germination without disturbing the seeds or opening the ziplock. Ami

[tam91]

Thanks

Merry Christmas!