How to Prime Seeds

Some seeds require soaking or other treatment before they are sown to improve their germination. This process is known as priming.

The seeds that need priming are sown using Method 2. 

For most seeds, the priming process takes 24 hours.

Step 1. Prepare your containers

You will need a separate container for each seed variety you are priming.

A 1 litre measuring jug is ideal but you can use a similar glass or beaker.

To the container add 0.5 litres of tap water. 

Then add 5 ml of OxyPlus (Hydrogen Peroxide) using a pipette and stir.

Step 2. Add the Seeds

Add the seeds to the liquid and stir.

Step 3. Wait and stir

Every 4-6 hours give the seeds a stir to help each seed get equally soaked.

Step 4. Change the liquid

After 8-12  hours, change the liquid:

                a) Strain the seeds into a fine sieve and pour the old liquid down the sink

                b) Refill the container with 0.5 litres tap water (no need to use OxyPlus this time).

                c) Return the seeds to the container

Step 5. Ready to Sow after 24 hours

After 24 hours from the start, the process is finished. 

Strain the seeds into a fine sieve, put on a plate, divide the seeds into a portion for each punnet, then you are ready to sow.

The priming has softened up the husk, which will speed up germination and growing time. In some cases you'll see that the seed coat has cracked.