Distilled water for cannabis seed germination and seedling?

[Jdogdabface]

I have had some bad luck recently with germinating seeds. Ive been successful in the past but something went wrong the last 3 times, and has cost me significantly. Im about to germinate some seeds, should I use distilled water, or purified spring water? Also should I PH adjust? Please scientific based responses, not personal opinion, I know both ways work I want to know why, and why not the other.

 

[corky1968]

Just use spring water and don't play with the pH.

 

[Shmavis]

Here's my method:

Distilled water. 1/2 ounce MaxiCrop and two drops of SUPERthrive per gallon of distilled water. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) at one part to five parts of water. (I only add 1/4 cup of HP to one gallon.) Leave PH alone.

Couple inches of this solution in SOLO cups... throw in seeds and allow enough time for them to sink to the bottom. Usually within twelve hours. Once they sink, then soak some paper towels with the solution. Throw seeds into paper towels, then paper towels into sandwich bag(s). Place bag (or bags) on top of fridge. Check regularly — at least every twelve hours.

Nothing scientific, just years of the same method with excellent results.

Good luck!

 

[Jdogdabface]

Thanks for the responses!

Shmavis - Why is it that you add Maxicrop and super thrive? To my understanding seedlings have nutrients and the proper vitamins for the first few weeks of life. Have you noticed adding these extras improves germination rates or the growth rate of the seedling?

 

[Shmavis]

Maxi is liquid seaweed. It’s a pretty standard means for seed/bulb soaking. Think of both (Maxi and ST) as root stimulants. And what are you doing in germination?... trying to promote (tap) root growth...

Once I have tap roots, I sow directly into seed-starter-peat-pots filled with my soil mix. At this point I leave the distilled water behind. (I only use it for germination.) Going forward I use tap water but I still add Maxi and ST (or ThriveAlive B1 — green label). And PH is adjusted accordingly.

I realize this isn’t a scientific explanation, but frankly, I think the line between science and art is blurred in this here game.

Try a few methods. See which works best for you. Granted, such tests are best done after you’ve made your own seeds... they’re a little cheaper to experiment with...

Wishing you wonderful germinating success!

 

[Jdogdabface]

That makes sense! Cool ill be popping beans in a few weeks ill give your method a shot.

 

[Shmavis]

Jdog,

You might find that sometimes you need to help a seed (or a few) out. For example, let’s say you throw ten seeds into a cup to soak. After some time you find the majority have sunk to the bottom. But there are a few still floating on the top. Go ahead and tap them with your finger. (or just slosh the cup around) If they bounce right back up then they’re not ready. But a lot of times you’ll find that that finger tap will put them down, letting you know they’re ready. And if they go under but slowly resurface, then they’re close enough... and sometimes a couple more taps will get them down for good.

Check back in and let us know if your success rate increases!