Seeds are nature’s tiny miracles – each one holds within it the potential for a complete mature plant. Yet they need the right conditions for this potential to unfold.
Especially with older seeds, sensitive varieties or species with hard seed coats it can be worth taking steps to help the germination process along. Soaking seeds gently before sowing them – whether in milk, a herbal infusion or a natural plant extract – can do just this: it makes the seed coat more permeable, activates enzymes and protects the seedling from pathogens.

Why soak your seeds?

Soaking seeds before sowing them is a simple but very effective method that is used in many traditional cultures. The benefits:

• The moisture uptake stimulates the germination process.
• Soaking can shorten germination times.
• It helps to reduce germs and fungal spores on the seed coat.
• Specific additions to the water can even strengthen and protect the seed.

Especially for open-pollinated seeds, which are often lovingly saved then stored for years at a time, this kind of treatment can give them a real freshness reboot.