Do you know you can use smoke to germinate seeds faster? Not only that, this also improves the success rate of some seeds.
If you were looking for a trick to stimulate seed germination, this is it. There are certain seeds that need smoke to germinate better and quickly.
Follow these Expert Tricks to Germinate Seeds Faster
What is Smoke Germination?
In this process, plant seeds respond to the combustion of organic matter during a fire, which releases smoke particles.
These smoke particles contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that act as a signal to nearby viable seeds. This signal triggers the seeds to germinate. It works like a nature’s call that allows the plants to re-populate an area quickly after a fire.
Different Methods of Smoke Germination
1. Aerosol Method
This method involves the application of a smoke aerosol, which breaks the dormancy of the seeds and stimulates germination. It is created by soaking seeds in a concentrated solution of water and wood smoke extract.
The smoke aerosol also provides a protective coating to the seeds, which can help to protect them from pests and diseases.
2. Smoke Water Method
The smoke contains volatile compounds that act as a stimulant to the seeds’ germination process.
To create smoke water, light a fire using natural materials such as wood, pine needles, or bark. Let the fire burn until it begins to smolder and smoke.
Place a container of distilled water near the fire and allow the smoke to drift into the water. Allow the smoked water to sit for at least an hour before use.
Now, combine equal parts of the smoke water and distilled water in a container. Add the seeds and let them sit in the blend for 24 hours.
Simple Smoke Germination Technique
- Fill a container with the material you will use for smoke production, such as dry grass or wood chips.
- Light the material and allow it to smolder without burning.
- Place the seeds into the container, making sure they are not directly in the smoke.
- Allow the smoke to surround the seeds for an hour or so.
- Remove the seeds from the container and plant them in the desired location.
This technique can be used in conjunction with other germination techniques, such as soaking, scarification, and stratification, for even better results.
Here are Simple Seed Germination Tips To Grow Every Seed
A Few Important Pointers
- Make sure the smoke water is not too concentrated, as it can be harmful to the seeds.
- Soak the seeds in water before placing them in the smoked water.
- Don’t use smoke from materials that have been treated with chemicals or pesticides.
Seeds that Need Smoke to Germinate Better
Seeds you can germinate using the smoke germination method are those that grow naturally in dry and fire-prone areas. Apart from them, some of the best ones you can try are – Peas, Beans, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Gourds, Sunflowers, Melons, and Pumpkin seeds.
In ornamental plants, you can try Protea, California Fuchsia, Banksia, Leucospermum, and Hakea.
