Spring is here, and at Cannactiva we're getting our hands in the soil! With longer, milder days, it's the perfect time to start growing and connect with nature.
Here we explain how to germinate with Jiffy step by step and share useful tips to make sure your growing succeeds from day one.
Legal note: Cannactiva seeds are sold exclusively as collectables and are not intended for growing or germination. This article is for information purposes only and describes the general use of Jiffy pellets for germination.
What is a Jiffy pellet?
A Jiffy is a small disc of pressed peat that expands when hydrated and becomes an excellent growing medium for germinating seeds. The Jiffy is very easy to use: just soak it in water for a few minutes until it swells and turns spongy. Then simply place the seed inside.
Among its benefits, the Jiffy retains moisture very well, which helps the seed germinate in good conditions and helps the roots develop from the very start. It also lets you transplant the plant, Jiffy and all, straight into its final pot, without having to touch the roots or stress it.
How to germinate seeds in Jiffy pellets
1. Soaking the seed
Place the seed in a glass of room-temperature water and add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) to oxygenate it and prevent fungal growth. Leave it to soak in a dark, warm place for a maximum of 48 hours, or until the main root (radicle) is about 2-3 mm long. If possible, use reverse osmosis water or rainwater to avoid chlorine and salts.
2. Preparing the Jiffy
Hydrate the Jiffy by soaking it in lukewarm water for a few minutes until it has fully expanded. Place it on a clean tray, plate or container.
3. Sowing
If the Jiffy has closed up the hole at the top where the seed goes as it hydrated, use the tip of a pencil to open it slightly and make enough room. Place the germinated seed with the radicle pointing downwards, and make sure it sits about 2 mm deep. Then cover it lightly with some of the Jiffy's own growing medium to protect the root from direct light.
4. Growth
Keep the Jiffy nicely moist, in a warm environment (between 20°C and 25°C) and in indirect light, until the seedling has developed at least its cotyledons (first leaves) and at least its first pair of true leaves. During this time, make sure the Jiffy pellets stay moist but not waterlogged, as too much moisture could rot the seed. If the Jiffy looks a little dry, you can mist it with water or water it from the base.
5. Transplanting into the final pot
Once the seedling is well enough developed, it's a good idea to remove the netting around the Jiffy so the roots don't meet any resistance as they grow.
Transplant the seedling directly into its final pot, with a capacity of at least 15-18 litres. Place the Jiffy with the seedling directly into the growing medium, without disturbing the roots. Once you've transplanted it, water sparingly and put the pot somewhere with good light.
Follow these steps and you'll get successful germination and an ideal start for your plant. Explore the shop:
