Fix uneven or poor germination with proper pre-soaking

Patchy trays with bare spots and uneven growth are usually caused by dry seeds, uneven sowing, or inconsistent moisture during the critical first 24-48 hours. Pre-soaking larger seeds solves most germination problems.

Seeds That Need Pre-Soaking (8-12 hours)

• Sunflower, pea, beet, chard, cilantro, wheatgrass
• Any seed larger than a sesame seed benefits from soaking

Seeds That Should NOT Be Soaked

• Mucilaginous seeds: basil, chia, flax, arugula (they form a gel coat)
• Tiny brassicas: broccoli, kale, radish, cabbage (they absorb water quickly from misting)

Tips

• Sow evenly by sprinkling seeds from 15-20 cm above the tray
• Ensure thorough initial misting — every seed must be wet
• Press seeds gently into the medium with a flat surface for soil contact
• Dead seeds happen — use fresh seed stock from reputable suppliers