I am not sure where this topic
should be, so will start here. Please move if there is a more appropriate forum.
What is the consensus in
permaculture on soaking seeds for better germination?
This year has been brutal on my pastures. Until this past week, we have not received more than a few drops since spring. My pastures were in poor shape to start. (previous owner severely overgrazed.) I was allowing the prairie to reseed itself and was coming along okay, despite the mini droughts we have had since 2016. This year is very bad. I will need to step in and intervene in the process.
The soil profile is dry. very dry. Logic tells me hydrated seeds will have a higher success rate if they don't have to scavenge moisture from soil that is severely depleted of
water. I am don't want to water log the seed, but before seeding I want to give them a good soak, maybe 12 hours and then plant ahead of a rain. (if we ever get another one.)
Is that plan going to compromise the seed? How much hydration is too much? Any
experience or knowledge on this subject? Seed is not cheap and I have 100 acres to cover, so I don't want to miss the fall seeding season or waste a lot of seed.
Plan is for small seeds planted less than 1/2 an inch so moisture after seeding (timing) will be very important, but during germination won't have access to much of the soil profile. (white, crimson, red clover, chicory, plantain, some brassicas.) Any thoughts appreciated.
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