Seed germination rates down in 2016? - Ask Extension
I've noticed an unusually low rate of seed germination in 2016. That includes seeds started indoors, seeds started outdoors directly into beds, and al...
Knowledgebase
Seed germination rates down in 2016? #381761
Asked January 11, 2017, 7:56 PM EST
I've noticed an unusually low rate of seed germination in 2016. That includes seeds started indoors, seeds started outdoors directly into beds, and also seeds started inside my (outside, unheated) greenhouse. I live in South Boulder. My seed mix includes new seeds purchased recently, saved seed from recent to older, and older purchased seeds (2+ years old) that generally germinate well. Across the board, I'm seeing many seeds not produce anything, and otherwise very low germination rates relative to normal. Have you been aware of similar problems in Colorado, or possible factors related to this phenomena? Any ideas, suggestions, areas for further research? Thanks in advance!
Steve
<personal data hidden>
Steve
<personal data hidden>
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Steve,
I haven't heard of this being a widespread problem, but I do know that it wasn't a great year in our community garden as far as plant establishment and harvest yields go. There were lots of pests and diseases that cycled through last year.
I would suggest doing a germination test to see the quality of the seeds. As for the recently purchased seeds, they go through rigorous tests to ensure viability so I'm not sure why those wouldn't be germinating.
http://www.seedsavers.org/site/pdf/HomeGermTests_LAFrevised.pdf
Water quality and soil temperature are important factors to consider as well.
http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/growing-plants-from-seed-7-409/
I haven't heard of this being a widespread problem, but I do know that it wasn't a great year in our community garden as far as plant establishment and harvest yields go. There were lots of pests and diseases that cycled through last year.
I would suggest doing a germination test to see the quality of the seeds. As for the recently purchased seeds, they go through rigorous tests to ensure viability so I'm not sure why those wouldn't be germinating.
http://www.seedsavers.org/site/pdf/HomeGermTests_LAFrevised.pdf
Water quality and soil temperature are important factors to consider as well.
http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/growing-plants-from-seed-7-409/
