Why germination is so important

Germination is the first and arguably most crucial step in the life of your cannabis plant. It lays the foundation for healthy growth and a successful harvest. However, it's during this sensitive initial phase—the so-called germination phase—that mistakes are particularly common. Many grows fail before they even begin. This makes it all the more important that you know what's important.

With proper preparation, a suitable germination method, and a little patience, nothing stands in the way of successful germination. In this article, you'll learn how to avoid common mistakes and best prepare your seeds for plant life.

The right choice of seeds as a basis

Before you start germinating, you should make sure you're using high-quality seeds. Seed quality significantly influences whether the seeds germinate and how vigorously the plant develops. Origin, genetics, and storage all play important roles.

Our tip: Read our article "How to Choose Your Cannabis Seeds Correctly" beforehand – there you'll find everything you need to know to make the right choice. Because the better the start, the greater the future success.

What germination methods are there – and which one is right for you?

There are several ways to germinate cannabis seeds. No one method is inherently "best"—it all depends on your work style and what's most practical for you. Below, we'll introduce you to the three most common methods—along with their advantages and disadvantages.

Direct sowing into the soil

This method is considered particularly natural and simple. You plant the seeds directly into moist potting soil.

Here's how: Dig a hole about 1 cm deep into the soil, carefully place the seed inside, and cover it loosely with soil. It's important to keep the soil evenly moist without overwatering – waterlogging should be avoided at all costs. The pot should be in a warm location, ideally between 20 and 25°C. Alternatively, you can also use seed-starting cubes such as Jiffy Pads or rockwool.

Advantages:
– No repotting necessary
– The root grows directly at its final location

Disadvantages:
– Difficult to maintain optimal humidity
– Somewhat less safe for beginners

Tip: Use stale water (at least 24 hours old) to evaporate chlorine and stabilize the oxygen level. Rainwater is also a good choice, as it is usually softer. Also, make sure to use nutrient-poor potting soil, as young seedlings are sensitive to too much fertilizer.

Germination in a glass of water

Another popular method is germination in a glass of water. Here, you place the seeds in a glass of lukewarm water and place it in a dark, warm place—such as a cupboard.

The radicle may appear after just 12 to 24 hours. Once this happens, the seed should be transferred to soil or a growing medium. It's important not to leave it in water for longer than a day, otherwise it risks rotting.

Advantages:
– Simple and fast
– Especially good for older or hard seeds

Disadvantages:
– Danger of drowning or rotting if soaking time is too long

Tip: If no roots appear after 24 hours, place the seed on damp kitchen paper to further promote germination (see next method).

Our recommendation: The kitchen paper method

The so-called "Zewa Method" is especially popular with beginners – and for good reason. It's uncomplicated, safe, and has a very high success rate.

Place a damp, untreated piece of kitchen paper or a cotton pad on a plate. Place the seeds on it, leaving some space between them, and cover them with a second, equally damp layer. Then store the whole thing in a dark, warm place, such as a cupboard or a Tupperware container.

Advantages:
– Very high germination rate
– Low risk of mold or rot
– No waterlogging

Disadvantages:
– Paper must remain slightly moist at all times
– Transplanting requires sensitivity

Tip: Place the setup in a sealed Tupperware container. This ensures consistent humidity and improves germination conditions. Don't forget to air it out daily – this prevents mold.

Once the radicle is about one centimeter long, you can carefully transplant the seedlings into soil or another growing medium.

Optimal conditions for germination

Regardless of the method, a few basic rules apply to germination:

• Temperature: 20–25 °C constant – too cold slows germination, too warm promotes mold
• Humidity: Evenly moist, but never soaked
• Light: Darkness preferred – direct light is unnecessary
• Air circulation: A little fresh air prevents mold growth

Typical germination mistakes – and how to avoid them

A common mistake is overwatering—too much water can literally suffocate the seed. Also, be careful not to plant the seed too deeply (or too shallowly). One to two centimeters is ideal.

Temperature fluctuations can also be problematic. Cold windowsills or radiators with direct heat are not good places for seedlings. Also, let the root radicle grow before handling the seedling—ideally, it should be at least one centimeter long.

With calm and care to success

Germination doesn't require complicated equipment—just a bit of patience, sensitivity, and the right conditions. If you follow the basic rules and choose a method that suits you, nothing will stand in the way of a successful grow.

And if something goes wrong or you have any questions, you can always contact our support team – we’ll be happy to help.