Germination

Germination refers to the initial process whereby a viable cannabis seed first begins showing signs of sprouting and outward growth to start a new plant life. Providing adequate warmth, moisture and oxygen levels prompts the seed to emerge from its protective shell and activate the critical first root growth along with the very first pair of small embryonic cannabis leaves or seed leaves called cotyledons.

Cannabis seeds germinate best in the optimal temperature range between 70-80°F when kept moist and oxygenated, but not soaked. The combination of gentle humidity and oxygenation levels accelerates the process and increases overall germination success rates. Once the small taproot penetrates the shell and emerges, the empty seed coat is then typically shed as the first round cotyledon leaves unfurl and reach for light. The germination process essentially kickstarts and initiates the full plant growth lifecycle in cannabis.

When starting plants from seed, careful monitoring and control over ambient conditions can help maximize successful germination rates by providing consistent ideal conditions during this vulnerable period. Many growers opt to use the moist paper towel method to trigger and accelerate sprouting before transplanting into soil or other medium.