#STARTANEWLIFE Article written by Valkyrie
A cannabis seed lies dormant, waiting for the necessary requirements to start a new life. Radicle will become root, cotyledons will become the first leaves to appear, and the shoot apex nestled between the cotyledons will become the very top of the growing plant.
Waiting to fuel to process is the desiccated endosperm, full of carbohydrate, protein, and fats, ready to fuel explosive growth. The tough outer-coat of the seed protects it until the conditions are ideal.
The first step is imbibition, whereby water will be absorbed by the dry seed. When the seed has absorbed a sufficient amount of water enzymes will re-hydrate and become active. The active enzymes will begin to break down food stored in the endosperm, catalyzing the development of the embryo.
This type of metabolism is called aerobic respiration. Oxygen is required in this metabolic process. As the seed embryo consumes the food stored in the endosperm, it will take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Without access to oxygen, the seed will lack the necessary inputs to create energy and will fail to thrive.
The root emerges and seeks nutrients. As the stored food is used up the root seek out additional nutrients from the surrounding medium, developing the rhizosphere.
As the cotyledons begin to emerge and push the seed coat off, the apex opens up and the first true leaves emerge. Photosynthesis now provides the energy for the growing plants.
To sprout cannabis seeds follow these steps:
- Soak in deionized water for 24-48 hours.
- Place in a damp paper towel for 24-48 hours.
- Transplant to a moist medium, being careful to keep the medium wet but not flooded.
As the seedlings emerge they will need the following to thrive:
- A light nutrient solution (70%) or ‘starting-strength’ grow media
- Low-intensity lighting (T5 or shaded sun)
- Mild temperatures (65-72F)
- Consistent moisture (relative humidity)
- A slight breeze (air movement)
Determining when to move a seedling from water to paper towel to medium is a challenge for new growers.
When a seed shows a tap root it is ready to move to a paper towel.
When some of the seeds begin to show their leaves it is time to move to medium.
Maintaining ideal conditions becomes the next challenge.
The light source can be too intense and burn seedlings – it can be too far away and seedlings can stretch. The medium can be too dry causing the seedlings to wither – the medium can soak and cause the roots to drown and rot without oxygen. Nutrients can be too strong or too weak. The temperatures can be too hot or too cold. If air circulation is lacking, the seedlings will choke off their own respiration cycles.
Building and maintaining a proper environment consistently is a challenge but it will give your seedlings the best possible start.
