The Germination of Bush Goliath Tomato Seeds

Seeds

• Purchase bush Goliath seeds from a reputable seed dealer. Since this strain of tomato is a hybrid, there is no guarantee that the resulting plant and fruit will be anything like what you expect. If collecting your own seeds, only collect and save seeds from heirloom varieties that have been kept away from other varieties of tomatoes.

Seed Prep

• Though not necessary, you may improve your chances for quick germination by bleaching the seeds before starting them. This is especially true if you have older seeds, or suspect that the seed may have become too warm or too cold during storage. Use household bleach diluted to half strength with water. Soak seeds for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly.

Germination

• Place tomato seeds in seed trays filled with a moist seed starter mix, preferably mix marked as sterile when sold. Fill trays to three-fourths full with potting mix and water. Allow them to drain. Place seeds, and cover them with no more than an additional 1/4 inch of mix. Place them in a warm place, or use a heat mat designed especially for starting plants to keep the soil between 70 and 75 degrees. Seeds should germinate in one to two weeks.

Seed Viability

• If you are uncertain about the viability of your seeds, you can test for life by placing a few into a moist coffee filter. Make certain the seeds are not touching one another. Put the filter in a plastic container with a lid, and place it in an area away from direct heat. Examine them every few days to check for germination, or sprouting.