We understand that unsuccessful germination can be frustrating. It’s something we spend a lot of time and money trying to prevent. In this article, we’ll touch on the complexities of germination, our policies, and what you can do in the case of non-germination. Don’t worry, we’re here to help!
My Seeds Didn’t Pop – Now What?
If you bought cannabis seeds from us that didn’t germinate, we’re here to help you. We understand that every order made is hard-earned money spent and we’ll do everything in our power, within our policy, to accommodate you.
Here’s how our policy works, based on the type of seeds you purchased:
- Biltong & Budz Genetics: We will replace up to 80% of non-germinating seeds.
- South African Stock: We will make contact with the local breeder to discuss the issue and work to find a resolution.
- European Stock: We look at these situations on a case-to-case basis. We will contact our suppliers and confirm whether a replacement can be accommodated. The final decision will be based on the likelihood of viability and come down to how the supplier handles the request.
- American Stock: We are unable to offer any guarantees on American stock. These orders are made infrequently and replacements are not a possibility. This is why we ensure to hold this stock in temperature-controlled fridges to prolong viability.
What We’re Doing To Improve Germination Rates
Biltong and Budz has served thousands of customers over the years, with the vast majority achieving successful germination. We have several standard protocols implemented to increase seed germination rates including:
- Keeping fewer seeds on hand and placing orders with suppliers only upon purchase from a customer, to ensure they are as fresh as possible.
- Refrigerating high-end genetics to ensure a stable storage condition.
- Placing all aged stock (seeds that have been on hand for 2 years or more) into clearance and marketing them down to cost price or below.
Still, even with these measures in place, seeds are unpredictable. The conditions the initial breeder stored the seeds in, and for how long will impact the overall viability. Similarly, the storage times and procedures used by suppliers play a part. This is why we only work with several of the world’s largest seed suppliers from South Africa, Europe, and America.
Why Seeds Don’t Germinate
Germination can be a delicate process, and even experienced growers encounter challenges. But why is it that some seeds seem to germinate with ease, while others struggle? Each seed is unique and the composition of the shell, the vigor, and its origin can all impact the process.
These are the most common causes of non-germination:
Incorrect Moisture Levels
The most common cause of non-germination is incorrect moisture levels. Seeds that are soaked too long can drown from lack of oxygen, and the correct time to soak a seed depends on the thickness of the shell. Additionally, sprouting seeds are extremely easy to overwater, and while some seeds are more forgiving, others have little room for error. An overly moist or excessively dry medium can be detrimental.
Incorrect Temperatures
Temperatures outside of the ideal range are a common cause of non-germination. Ideally, seeds should be germinated in temperatures between 20’C and 25’C. Too much heat can cause the seed to become dormant while colder temperatures can cause fungal growth and other issues.
Seed Depth Issues
Planting the seed too deep or too shallow can cause problems in germination. Shallow seeds may cause the root to be exposed to light while planting it too deep may also cause problems. Aim for a planting depth of between 0.5-0.7cm.
Old or Improperly Stored Seeds
Old seeds or those stored improperly (usually in excess heat or with exposure to light) can cause reduced germination rates. We take the utmost care to ensure our seeds are stored in dark, sealed containers, and for our premium seeds, we place them directly into a fridge with optimal temperatures maintained. Some growers opt to use Gibberellic acid on dormant seeds, but doing so comes with its own risks and requires good understanding before being utilized.
For a detailed guide on germination, please check our germination guide.