Steps for Germinating Hand Cucurbit Seeds:
First, if you want to speed up the germination process, try gently making a small cut on the tip of the seed using pliers or a nail clipper. This helps break the hard outer shell without damaging the inner part. Just make sure to be careful and only remove the outer layer so the seed can naturally sprout.
Second, soak the seeds in water at around 30°C for 8 to 12 hours. After soaking, wrap them in a coarse cloth like a damp towel and place them in a warm area with temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. You can use an Electric Blanket or a quilt to keep them warm. Gourd seeds usually take about 7 to 10 days to germinate. Once the sprout reaches about 0.5 to 1 cm in length, they are ready to be moved to a seedbed or directly into the soil.
Third, choose a soft and well-draining soil for planting. If you're a beginner, it's best to use a seedling block to start with. Place the seeds flat and cover them with about 1 cm of soil. When using seedlings, first raise them in a tray without water until they are strong enough. Then, poke a small hole, insert the sprouted seeds, and cover them again. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Initially, place the container in a shaded area. Once you move it to sunlight, cover it with a piece of newspaper to protect from direct sun and rain. Continue keeping the soil consistently moist until the seeds fully germinate.
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