How to Plant Chili Seeds for Germination
In the spring sowing season, planting chili seeds has become a popular choice for home gardening. To achieve quick germination, mastering the scientific method of accelerating germination is key. This article will systematically analyze the entire process of chili seed germination from seed selection to transplantation management.
Four Key Steps for Planting
Standards for Selecting Quality Seeds
Choose plump, undamaged chili seeds from the current year, which can achieve a germination rate of over 90%. It is recommended to select products from professional seed companies and use them within the expiration date. Use the saltwater test method: soak the seeds in 5% saltwater, and the quality seeds that sink to the bottom are the most suitable for sowing.
Three Elements of Scientific Germination
Use the combined technology of "Warm Water Seed Soaking + Moisture Germination": 1. Soak in 50℃ warm water for 6 hours, changing the water halfway to maintain temperature. 2. Use perlite instead of paper towels to increase water retention by 40%. 3. Cover with a transparent container to form a mini greenhouse, keeping the temperature stable at 28℃±2. The best observation period is between 36-48 hours, and the seeds can be sown when the radicle breaks through the seed coat.
Suggested Formula for Nutrient-rich Soil
Recommend a 3:1:1 substrate formula: • Humus soil (providing organic matter) • Vermiculite (enhancing breathability) • Wood ash (supplementing potassium elements). Disinfect the soil with carbendazim solution before sowing to prevent diseases in the seedling stage.
Depth and Timing of Sowing
When the air temperature is stable above 18℃, carry out dot sowing: • Control the sowing depth between 2-3 cm. • Use the hole sowing method, with 2 seeds per hole to ensure the germination rate. • Cover with plastic film to keep warm, and promptly remove the film after germination. Combined with scattered light, the germination time can be shortened by 30%.
Practice shows that by optimizing the soaking temperature, improving the germination medium, and precisely controlling the sowing depth, the chili seed germination cycle can be shortened to 72 hours. It is recommended to regularly measure the soil EC value, maintaining the best conductivity between 0.8-1.2mS/cm. After germination, pay attention to gradually increasing the light intensity to cultivate strong seedlings.