pH Levels for Germinating Chia Seeds

Soil pH Requirements

• Chia and other salvia species grow in tough conditions that many other plants won't tolerate. Chia isn't particular about soil pH and can sprout in soil that is acidic, neutral or alkaline. This isn't to say chia will sprout in extremely acidic or alkaline soils. Instead, it means the seeds will sprout in nearly any soil found in your yard or store without special amendments to change the pH. Garden soils range from pH 4.0 to 8.5 (store-bought potting soil is around 6.5 to 7.0).

Growing Conditions

• Chia prefers loose, well-drained soil and does best in soils that are sandy or loamy. It will not grow well in heavy clay soils with poor drainage. Although drought-tolerant, this plant will not withstand wet soil. Chia must have a sunny spot in which to grow. The seeds don't require sun to germinate, but the plants will get lanky or will fail to grow if kept in shady conditions.

When to Plant

• If your goal is to grow chia as a flowering plant in the garden, plant your chia seeds directly into the area of the garden where you want them to grow in late April once the weather warms. The seedlings do not handle transplanting well, so you should avoid starting them in trays indoors. If conditions prevent you from being able to plant outside in April, sow the seeds inside in pots that will decompose and can be planted directly into the garden bed. If growing chia for the sprouts, they can be started in a tray or nearly any porous surface indoors any time of year.

Germinating Chia Seeds

• To plant your chia seeds, first moisten the material you've chosen to plant them on. Chia seeds can sprout in soil, on cloth and on terra cotta. Soak the seeds in a small amount of water overnight to soften the seed coat and increase the germination rate. Then, spread the seeds in a thin layer over your soil or other growing surface. If planting outside, sprinkle a thin layer of loose soil over the seeds to help keep birds from eating them. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. Indoors, your seeds should sprout within a week; outdoors, it takes up to two weeks for the seeds to germinate.