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As a reward for its gifts, even the most fertile land requires payment in the form of hard work. However, what a disappointment when all the efforts made respond with a fruitless emptiness. Often the root of the problem is unsuitable planting material. Today we will tell you how to choose seeds and not regret it.
General rules and advice
The right approach to choosing seeds begins with planning future plantings and marking the land. This is necessary in order to protect yourself from rash purchases and subsequent reflections on where to define a spontaneous purchase. This is especially true for those for whom gardening is a hobby. Farmers, for whom the land is a source of subsistence, tend to be more responsible in organizing planting work.
In addition, you need to choose seeds based on the characteristics of the environment, namely:
- climatic conditions;
- soil composition;
- location, as well as the individual characteristics of the landing site.
This means that one should not ignore the zoning of culture, falling for the bait of a beautiful image. The plant is able to reveal its potential only under conditions determined by competent specialists, thanks to long-term tests. The same rule applies to exotic specimens. The discrepancy between the microclimate and the nuances of care can lead to disappointment.
It is advisable to seek advice on choosing suitable seeds from more experienced neighbors in the dacha. First, the similar composition of the land and general conditions will make these tips as relevant as possible. Secondly, you can personally observe the growth and yield of certain plant varieties.
The purchase of planting material must be justified not only by the above factors, but also by:
- the appointment of the future harvest;
- its quantity;
- indicators of keeping quality;
- taste value.
How good the choice turns out to be depends on the purpose of growing, whether for personal use or for sale.
Video “Selection of seeds and planting seedlings”
From this video you will learn how to choose the right seeds and plant seedlings.
Packaging quality
Making a specific purchase like seeds is partly like a lottery. This can be justified by the fact that the buyer does not actually see the product itself, and also cannot look into the future. Therefore, such acquisitions are often based on trust in the manufacturer’s reputation.
The main factor responsible for the correct choice of seeds is packaging. The first thing you should pay attention to is the quality of the material and printing work. The paper should be thick and intact, and images and inscriptions should be clear. In addition, the packaging must provide the consumer with the following information:
- name, logo and contacts of the manufacturer;
- the name of a variety identical to that in the lists of the state register;
- a description of the representative of the culture, as well as an indication of the main agrotechnical requirements for planting and care;
- the number of seeds. Indicated in pieces or grams;
- product batch number;
- abbreviation of compliance with state standards;
- packaging date and expiration date.
Speaking about the shelf life of the material, it is worth clarifying that this is rather a guarantee of germination that the manufacturer gives for his products. So, some seeds may be suitable for planting for ten years. At the same time, some summer residents, in order to save money, purchase expired goods and reanimate them with stimulants.
Where is the best place to buy
Specialty stores are always the main source of quality products. This also includes online stores belonging to the main trading network. Such establishments are distinguished by increased quality control of products, as well as the necessary conditions for its storage.
In addition, the owners of agricultural networks directly cooperate with seed suppliers, and also have the necessary documentation containing information on the quality characteristics of the product. The big plus of specialty stores are their employees. Competent consultants will help you choose the right seeds that meet the requirements of the client.
It is desirable to bypass the market, as street vendors are not able to provide the necessary conditions for storing goods, which is a common cause of damage. In addition, there is a high probability of acquiring material for sowing, which at best will produce the wrong variety at the end. As an exception, there may be verified market points, which are premises equipped for specific trade.
hybrid seeds
Hybrid plants are characterized by the fact that they take the best from their “parents”. In addition, these are the only crops that allow you to collect a uniform crop, consisting of fruits of the same color, size and shape. The fact that the direct heir of several varieties will grow from the purchased seeds is indicated by the “F1” mark on the package. Sometimes the letter “S” can be found on the bag, which says that the contents are elite products.
The disadvantage of hybrids is that they require the systematic purchase of seeds of a favorite plant, since preparing home stocks for planting is a waste of time.
Test for germination
Purchased products are often subjected to testing to determine whether the effort for a new batch of planting material is worth the effort. There are several ways:
- Quick. The seeds are placed in water. At this stage, part of the contents of the bag remains at the bottom, and the rest pops up. Seeds that are on the surface are considered marriage.
- Long. A dozen test seeds are placed on a wet cotton pad and covered with the same one on top. The experimental material is placed near the heater. A week’s wait will show the actual result.