Fear of Clowns

No doubt about it, chili pepper seeds germinate quicker and at a higher rate with 6.0 pHed 100 ppm giberillin solution than with plain water when using the paper towel method. I used this method exclusively with 51 Dorset Naga seeds 10 days ago (2/26), as of today 46 have sprouted.

Side by side comparisons with many chili varieties showed similar results: greater than 90% germination a week or more earlier compared to about 75% germination with plain water. The most drastic example was with a variety I purchased on eBay as "Jamacian yellow Scotch bonnet": 8/10 in the group in giberillin solution had germinated by the 11th day, while 3/10 of those in plain water have germinated as of today, the 21st day.

The deluxe paper towel method:

• With water purified by reverse osmosis or distillation, make a 100 - 150 ppm giberillin solution. If you don't have a ppm meter, follow the mixing instructions on the label.
• Place seeds and the solution in a small and tightly covered transparent or translucent plastic container. Chili pepper seeds like light while germinating. I use the 1/2 cup kitchen storage containers with blue tops you can by in grocery stores. Some people use sealable plastic bags in which case you'll have to use a different container for soaking. Place the container in a warm area, ideally 85-95 degrees F. I use a seedling heating mat. The warmest place in most homes is on top of a water heater or refrigerator.
• After 24 hours, fold a single (or half) paper towel (called "kitchen paper" outside of the US) small enough so it provides a flat surface when placed in your container. Saturate the paper towel with the same solution you've been soaking the seeds in.
• Place the seeds on top of the wet paper towel and seal the container, returning it to the warm area.

Labels: chili peppers, gardening, germination, peppers

// posted by Erik @ 3/07/2008 07:06:00 PM
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