Step 1: Gather Materials

To test seed germination, you’ll need:

• 10 seeds of each type you’re testing
• One or more zip-seal plastic baggies
• Paper towel (one for each type of seed you’re testing)
• Permanent marker for labeling seeds
• Labels cut from a plastic shopping bag (if conducting multiple tests).

Step 2: Wet Paper Towel

Dampen the paper towel, and spread it out on the counter. A regular size paper towel folded in half will easily fit inside a quart bag.

Step 3: Deposit Seeds on Paper Towel

Space out the 10 seeds on the paper towel. Don’t mix the seed types – put your zinnias in one paper towel, and your tomatoes in another.

Step 4: Seal Seeds in Plastic Bag

Roll the seeds up inside the paper towel, pressing lightly to make sure the seeds are in contact with the damp paper. Put the paper towel with seeds inside a plastic baggie and seal it up. If you’re testing more than one type of seed per baggie, write the seed type on a plastic label using a permanent marker, and roll the label up with the paper towel. If you’re testing more than one type of seed in different baggies, write the type of seed on the outside of the baggie.

Step 5: Wait for Seeds to Germinate

Place the sealed bag of seed packets in a warm spot in your house, and wait to see if they sprout.

Step 6: Check Seeds for Germination

Check seeds every few days for germination by gently unrolling the damp paper towel. If they haven’t sprouted, roll the seeds back up and return to the bag.