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Causes of Poor Germination and Solutions 

The first step to successful farming is good seed germination. However, many farmers face the issue of poor germination, which is highly sensitive and directly affects crop yield. Let’s explore the key reasons and solutions behind this problem.

Major Causes of Poor Germination

1. Moisture – The Biggest Factor

Moisture plays a critical role in seed germination.

• Excess Moisture: Continuous or heavy rainfall after sowing can cause seed rotting.

• Low Moisture: A dry spell after initial rain can dry up sprouted seeds.

• Pressure: Heavy rain post-sowing may press seeds deep into the soil, preventing sprouting.

2. Sowing Depth

For crops like soybean, sowing depth should ideally be 4–5 cm.

• If seeds are sown too deep, the sprout may not emerge.

• If too shallow or on the surface, seeds may get washed away.

• Improper sowing by tractor operators can also lead to poor germination.

Moisture and depth together account for 95% of germination issues.

3. Seed Quality

Reputed companies sell seeds only after proper germination testing.
But unknown or low-grade seed sources carry risks.

• Improper storage,

• Pressure during transport,

• Exposure to high heat at retail shops –
  All of these can reduce seed viability.

 What to Do if Germination is Low?

For Cotton:

• If germination is poor, replant gaps quickly.

• Delay causes stunted plants and increased pest & disease issues.

For Soybean:

• If you've sown branching varieties (other than 9560), don't worry if some seeds don’t sprout.

• Soybean adjusts by producing more branches when it gets space.

• Dense planting often causes flower drop and fewer pods.

• Even with sparse germination, yields may remain stable if the variety is suitable.

• Gap filling within 10–15 days is acceptable.

✅ Conclusion

While there may be several reasons for poor germination, moisture and depth are the key factors.
With quality seeds, scientific sowing methods, and proper weather timing, farmers can overcome this challenge.