health
February 28, 2026
When it comes to preparing seeds for your garden, you’ll reap what you sow
Knowing how much water and warmth different seeds need to germinate will improve your chances of getting a great crop of vegetables
TL;DR
- Water is essential for seed germination, causing the seed coat to swell and activate internal enzymes, but too much or too little can prevent sprouting.
- Temperature plays a critical role, with different seeds having optimal ranges for germination; for example, aubergines and chillies prefer around 21C, while lettuce struggles above 30C.
- Some seeds with hard coats, like okra and peas, benefit from scarification (nicking or sanding) or soaking to allow water penetration.
- Seeds from plants that overwinter, such as chamomile and parsley, may require cold stratification to mimic winter conditions before germination.
- Understanding and meeting the specific environmental needs of seeds can lead to more successful germination and a better vegetable crop.
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