In order to optimize the sowing of nasturtium, many gardeners wonder whether the seeds should be soaked beforehand. You can find all information about this in this article.

In a nutshell

  • Soaking the seeds shortens the germination time
  • more seeds germinate successfully
  • Tap water can be used for soaking

Seed soak useful?

The nasturtium (Tropaeolum) is a genus that forms hard and large seeds. This makes germination more difficult if you sow the seeds dry. Soaking helps with this problem and noticeably speeds up the process. During soaking, the seed will become soaked with water, which will speed up germination. The regular germination time of two to three weeks can be shortened by a few days if the seeds have had a chance to soak beforehand. In addition, the seeds germinate more reliably if they are soaked. Dry seeds sometimes have some trouble starting the germination process.

utensils for soaking

In order for the soaking of nasturtium seeds to work, you need the right utensils. These make the process easier and ensure that the seeds are soaked effectively. The following list gives you an overview of the required utensils:

  • key
  • water
  • close-meshed sieve

You don't have to worry about hard water as the nasturtium is lime tolerant. Tap water is therefore perfectly sufficient for soaking the seeds.

Tip: However, you can use chamomile tea for soaking instead of water. The ingredients in the tea soften the seed coat more effectively and quickly.

Soaking seeds: instructions

Once you have all the necessary supplies at your disposal, you can start soaking the nasturtium seeds. Since the process does not take long, you can schedule it on the same day as the actual sowing. Follow this guide to properly soak the seeds:

  • Fill bowl with water
  • only use lukewarm water
  • Put seeds in water
  • Soaking time: 6 to 12 hours
  • soaked seeds collect at the bottom
  • finally strain
  • ideally sow immediately

Note: It doesn't matter whether you sow the seed in the bed after soaking it or prefer it in a bucket. Both variants are possible.

frequently asked Questions

When to Sow Tropaeolum Seeds

The timing of sowing depends on whether you want to advance the plants. If you decide to grow them indoors, you can sow the seeds in seed trays at the beginning of February. As soon as the ice saints have survived, the seedlings can be planted out. When sowing directly outdoors, you should choose a day around mid-April. Ideally, the ground is no longer frozen.

Is the nasturtium a dark or light germinator?

If you sow the seeds of the Tropaeolum after soaking, they must be deep enough in the ground. The seed should be placed two to three centimeters deep so that as little light as possible reaches the seeds.

Do the seeds need to be sorted after soaking?

No, you don't have to go to the trouble of sorting out potentially damaged seeds. Any seeds that are still floating on the surface after the scheduled soaking time just need a little more time. They have not yet soaked up liquid, so they are not heavy enough and will continue to float. Nasturtium seeds are quite robust.

Category:

Vegetable garden