Seed Starting - Terms You Should Know
Gardening Terms You Should Know for Starting Seeds
If you are thinking about starting your own seeds this winter and spring, here are some terms that might help you translate your seed packages. Starting your own seeds is a great way to learn more about plants and planting, and to fill up all your window space for the remainder of the winter (if you don’t have grow lights). There are some unique terms that can come up if you’re new to starting seeds, so we’ve compiled this list to help you navigate the terminology. Let’s dig in!
1. Germination
Germination is the process by which a seed sprouts and begins to grow. It starts when the seed absorbs water and ends when the first leaves, or cotyledons (these aren’t true leaves), emerge from the soil. Factors like temperature, moisture, and light can influence germination rates. Different seeds have unique requirements, so always check the seed packet for guidance.
2. Seed Coat
The seed coat is the outer protective layer of a seed. Some seeds, like sweet peas, have hard coats that may benefit from scarification (see below) to help water penetrate and encourage germination.
3. Scarification
Scarification involves scratching or weakening the seed coat to improve water absorption and speed up germination. This can be done by lightly sanding the seed with sandpaper or nicking it with a knife. This method is commonly used for seeds with tough outer shells, such as morning glories or lupines. However, be careful to not scratch the seed coat too deeply.
4. Stratification
Stratification mimics the natural conditions seeds experience during winter. This process often involves chilling seeds in a damp paper towel or soil mix in the refrigerator for a specific period. Cold stratification is essential for certain perennial seeds like lavender or milkweed, which require a period of cold to break dormancy.
5. Dormancy
Dormancy is a state in which seeds remain inactive until the conditions are right for germination. Some seeds require specific triggers, like cold stratification or exposure to light, to break dormancy.
6. Cotyledon
Cotyledons are the first leaves that emerge from a seed. These “seed leaves” are different from true leaves, which develop later. Cotyledons often look simpler and are used by the seedling as an initial energy source.
7. True Leaves
True leaves are the first leaves that resemble the mature form of the plant. Once a seedling has true leaves, it has entered a new growth stage and often requires more nutrients to thrive.
8. Seedling
A seedling is a young plant that has emerged from the seed and developed its first true leaves. This is a critical stage for plants, as they are particularly vulnerable to issues like overwatering or damping-off (see below).
9. Damping-Off
Damping-off is a fungal disease that can kill seedlings by attacking their stems at the soil level. Prevent this by ensuring proper air circulation, using sterile soil, and avoiding overwatering.
10. Growing Medium
The growing medium is the material in which you plant your seeds. While traditional garden soil might seem like an easy choice, it can be too heavy and compact for seed starting. Instead, use a soilless seed-starting mix, which is lightweight and drains well, providing an ideal environment for young roots.
11. Hardening Off
Hardening off is the process of gradually acclimating indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions. This involves exposing the seedlings to sunlight, wind, and fluctuating temperatures a little more each day over 7-10 days before transplanting them into the garden. This step reduces transplant shock and helps the plants thrive. In Saskatchewan, we won’t need to worry about this until May generally.
12. Light Requirements
Many seeds have specific light requirements for germination. Some need darkness, while others require light to sprout. For example, lettuce seeds need light, so they should only be lightly pressed into the soil rather than buried. On the other hand, Viola seeds need darkness to germinate, and can be covered with an upside down seed tray or placed in a dark cabinet to restrict the light. Refer to your seed packet for specific instructions.
13. Days to Germination
“Days to germination” refers to the typical number of days it takes for a seed to sprout under ideal conditions. This information is often listed on seed packets and can help you plan your planting schedule.
14. Thinning
Thinning is the practice of removing excess seedlings to give the remaining ones more space to grow. While it can be tough to pull out healthy seedlings, overcrowding can lead to weak plants and poor yields. Thin seedlings by snipping them at the base with scissors rather than pulling them to avoid disturbing nearby roots.
15. Transplanting
Transplanting involves moving a seedling from its starting container to a larger pot or into the garden. Be gentle when handling seedlings to avoid damaging their roots. Always transplant on a cloudy day or in the evening to reduce stress on the young plants.
16. Heirloom Seeds
Heirloom seeds come from plant varieties that have been passed down through generations, often prized for their flavor, uniqueness, or history. They are open-pollinated, meaning they can produce seeds that will grow true to the parent plant.
17. Hybrid Seeds
Hybrid seeds are the result of cross-pollinating two different plant varieties to produce a plant with specific desirable traits, such as disease resistance or higher yields. Unlike heirloom seeds, hybrid seeds may not grow true to type if saved and replanted.
18. Seed Viability
Seed viability refers to a seed’s ability to germinate and grow into a healthy plant. While most seeds have a shelf life, factors like storage conditions and age can affect their viability. To test seed viability, place a few seeds on a damp paper towel, seal them in a plastic bag, and check for sprouting after a few days. By keeping your seeds in cool, dark place, it will help prolong a seed’s viability.
19. Pelleted Seeds
Pelleted seeds are seeds coated in a layer of material to make them larger and easier to handle. This is especially helpful for tiny seeds like petunias or carrots.
20. Direct Sowing
Direct sowing means planting seeds directly into the garden where they will grow, rather than starting them indoors. Crops like beans, peas, cucumbers and carrots are often direct sown since they don’t transplant well.
