How to Sprout Seeds Before Planting

Working with seeds before you plant them will ensure that they sprout into seedlings faster. It will also make them more likely to survive the growing period. Sprouting seeds before planting cuts down on the germination process drastically. It can take seeds 7 to 20 days to sprout in dirt, whereas pre-sprouting (or chitting) takes 2-4 days. Once they sprout, they can be planted in the ground or containers. Pre-sprouting works on trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials.

Place seeds in a cup or glass full of water. Soak them for 5-10 hours before planting to get the sprouting process started.

Lay a paper towel out on a flat surface. Sprinkle the seeds out on half of one side of the towel. Spread them out so they are in one layer and not stacked on top of each other. It's fine if their edges touch.

Fold the unused portion of paper towel over onto the seeds. Carefully put the paper towel in a plastic storage bag. Do not zip or seal the bag closed. Leave it open.

Spray the paper towel lightly with the plant mister. Make the paper damp but not soaking wet. Re-spray the paper towel whenever it feels dry to the touch. Continue to do so until the seeds sprout.

Put the plastic bag somewhere where it will be warm. 70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. Southern-facing windows get the most sunlight, but make sure the bag sits somewhere with bright, indirect light.

Examine the seeds every day. As soon as you see a tip begin to peek out of most of the seeds, bring them outside to plant just like you would with normal seeds. Do not let the seeds grow into the paper towel, which they will do if you leave them in the bag too long.