Just like the Big Bang created all of the infinite possibilities found in the Multiverse, cannabis seeds are packed full of their very own amazing potential. Cannabis seed germination is the first step for growers to start a little galaxy in their tents, grow rooms, or outdoor gardens. So let’s break down the science of germination and how to best approach and understand it, according to the science.
Just like many other plants and crops, cannabis seeds lie low until they are exposed to the right conditions to begin sprouting and growing. All seeds remain dormant—or inactive—as a result of an internal hormonal regulation between abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellins (GA). ABA prevents early germination, while GA gets the internal germination message stimulated inside the seed with enzymes and cellular growth. [1]
After absorbing enough water to begin activation, enzymatic activity, coupled with internal hormonal processes, paves the way for the seedling to come out of its shell. Two enzymes in particular—amylases and proteases—metabolize starches and proteins. They are vital for the embryo to receive sufficient energy for cellular growth. [2]
You’ll know a seed is germinated once the taproot, aka the radicle, begins to develop and can be seen attaching the seedling to the soil to begin growing both above and below it. This typically takes anywhere from 4–7 days, according to researchers. [3] After the taproot makes its debut, the many shoots of the weed plant will begin to emerge—eventually becoming the stems and leaves that will help birth your best buds.
As mentioned, to activate GA enzymes and begin the activation process of cannabis seeds, several conditions must be met. These conditions include temperature, water, and oxygen to spur internal metabolic activity. [1]
Water absorption is the first metabolic signal to the GA enzymes to begin germination. Nutrients stored inside the seed are dissolved by water, creating a reaction that causes starch enzymes to become sugars, which provide vital nourishment to seeds and seedlings. [4] It also helps soften the seed coat for the taproot to break through and begin growing in the soil. [1]
Steady water moisture is super important compared to too much of it, which can rot a seed out just as quickly as it will germinate it.
To produce more energy for the emerging seedlings, cannabis seeds experience what’s known as aerobic respiration. This cellular process is how the sugar that came from the starch enzymes can be converted into the cannabis seed’s energy or ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Oxygen is also crucial in forming the taproot, which will break through the seed shell. [1]
All of the internal activity during germination requires a demand for more oxygen and subsequent energy. If oxygen levels aren’t up to snuff, germination can, at the very least, take longer—at the worst, it can prevent germination from occurring.
Ambient room temperature is typically around 21% oxygen. This is an ideal percentage for successful germination. Once oxygen levels begin to go lower and lower, the possibility of germination failure is more common. [5][6]
Ensure your germinating seeds are in well-aerated soil with good drainage to receive optimal oxygen. According to one of the original humanoid authorities on growing weed plants—Jorge Cervantes—cannabis seeds should be planted at a depth of about 2x their diameter to create the ideal harmony between moisture and available oxygen. [7]
According to some humanoid researchers, the ideal temperature sweet spot for cannabis seed germination is 68–77°F. [8] However, it is also noted by other researchers that “germination temperature varies with genotype and geographical location.” This means landrace and sativa cannabis seeds that originate from warmer climates can withstand different temperature variations compared to, say, a Canadian-bred strain. [5]
Just like lower levels of oxygen availability, lower temperatures will slow internal seed activity. High temps do a remarkable job of stressing and destroying seed proteins, ultimately preventing germination. [8] Once in the sweet spot of an ideal temperature range, starch and protein conversion work most efficiently to promote strong germination. [9]
Some growers like to keep their seeds in a seedling heat mat to ensure optimal temperature control, but me—I just make sure they’re stored, ready, and undergoing germination at a healthy room temperature with humidity levels below 70%. [10]
Planning your own grow can be a rewarding experience—your very own little universe right there in front of you brimming with life and vitality. Getting it started off on the right foot by understanding the science behind germinating cannabis seeds can be beneficial for a number of reasons.
By making more informed decisions come planting season as a result of knowing the science behind germination, you not only get your seedlings off to a great start, you also set the stage for a fruitful harvest a few months down the road.
If you’re unsure how to get started with the germination of your weed plants, check out my How To Germinate Cannabis Seeds Guide. It provides the most efficient methods to germinate seeds, backed by science and Uncle Paulie’s seal of approval, of course!
Have questions about cannabis seed germination, environmental factors, or what strains are right for your grow? Contact Multiverse Beans and let our team of experts help you select the best cannabis seeds and provide personalized guidance for your successful germination and beyond.
