Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

I can't remember whether I've had better results by soaking the seeds before planting.
What do you do?

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

When I used to grow sweetpeas, I always soaked as they have a very hard shell.
Others may differ of course.
Smile

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

I always soak

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

I normally soak in tepid water and have heard that some growers nick the outer part of the seed with a sharp knife in order to encourage germination, I have never tried it.

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

I always soak, but don't water the compost too much after (or sow them in very wet ground) or they can rot.

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

Thanks folks I'm soaking

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

I soak too.

I have tried 'nicking' them, but found it tricky because unsoaked, they have such a hard outer casing that you need a very sharp knife to cut through it. It is made extra difficult because the seeds are so small to hold steady while you cut as well.
This is why I went back to soaking instead.

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

Don't nick them Mups!
Your conscience will play on you and besides you might set the shop alarm off!

Re: Sweetpeas, to soak or not to soak...

OK Tess, I'll take them back again.