Part 1: Propagation by seed
7. Germination
The first sign of germination is a radicle (which develops into the first root) emerging from the seed, but this is not always obvious as it often occurs under the soil surface. Once there are signs above the soil surface that germination has occurred remove the plastic propagation cover to allow air to circulate around the emerging seedling, ensuring that the compost is kept moist.
Next the shoot emerges from the seed and extends up towards the light. Either one or two cotyledons, or seed leaves, unfold.
Seedlings often remain at this stage for a few days or even weeks while they develop their root structure and it can appear that they have stalled but keep them moist and give them time and you will start to see their first ‘true leaves’ start to develop between the cotyledons.
