Problem: Mr. Cruz received free seeds of tomato from a friend who is a vegetable grower in his
community. To determine if the seeds are viable, he sowed 50 seeds using a 50-hole seed tray.
After a week he found out that only 40 seeds germinated. What is the percentage germination of
the tomato seeds he tested?
Answers
Answer:
Choose Deep Pots For Tomato Seedlings
Gardener’s Supply Co. at Gardeners.com
Germination is the first step toward making a plant, when a seed breaks open to form a root, then a stem, then leaves, at which point it can be called a seedling. Tomato seeds typically germinate in 5 to 10 days if given optimal conditions. You’ll know seeds have germinated as soon as you see green plant emerging from the growing medium. That’s a time to celebrate.
The rate of germination for a particular packet of tomato seeds depends on the source and age of the seed. This can be called the viability of the seed. Typically, the older the seed, the lower the germination rate and less viability. Increase your chances of getting the number of plants you desire by planting 25% or more seeds than you actually think you’ll need. Some may not germinate, but you’ll still have what you need.
If you have issues with germinating your tomato seed, temperature may be the problem. Ideal temperatures for germination are 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures much lower than 70 degrees will cause slower germination, and if temperatures dip far below, germination may not occur at all. Likewise, hot temperatures well above 80 can also cause germination to fail. If you need to increase temperature, a plant heating mat is a good helper.