Seed Germination Test: Easy Paper Towel Method
Do you have old seeds, and are wondering if they’ll still grow? Or perhaps you’d like to check the success of your seed-saving efforts? Come learn how to do an easy seed germination test to measure seed viability!
Equipment
- paper towels
- plastic ziplock bag
- spray bottle (recommended)
Ingredients
- seeds
- water
Instructions
- If you’re testing more than one seed variety, plan to label each test as needed.
- Pre-moisten the paper towel. I use a spray bottle to evenly and lightly dampen the towel. If you run it under water instead, squeeze out excess water so it’s not dripping or sopping wet.
- Place at least 10 seeds on one half of the towel. Try to keep them spaced enough to observe their sprouting activity.
- Fold the paper towel in half over the seeds. Lightly press down so the damp paper towel is in contact with all of the seeds. Spritz again if needed.
- Place the damp paper towel and seeds inside a ziplock bag, but leave the bag unsealed.
- Keep the seeds in a moderately warm location (not hot). 65 to 75°F is ideal for rapid and even germination for most seeds.
- Over the next few days, monitor the moisture level inside the bag. Use a spray bottle to mist the towel with more water only if it starts to dry out.
- Under ideal conditions, most types of seeds should germinate within about a week (if not sooner) though some may take longer.
- Once the majority of your seeds have germinated (and you’ve waited a few extra days for any late bloomers to sprout too), it’s time to take a count!
- Germination rate % = (number of seeds sprouted x 100) / total seeds tested
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!