Primitive Methods of Seed Priming

Water

• Dried seeds are placed in tubs or vats and completely covered with water to begin the process of seed priming. Depending on the type of seed to be primed, the seed may be left in the water for as little as 15 minutes, the case for most seeds, or as long as 24 hours, for hard coated seeds such as groundnuts.

Additives

• Salt or other mildly abrasive, natural substances are sometimes added to the water as the seeds are soaking. The water is then stirred to allow the abrasive additive to further soften the hardness of the seed shell.

Drying

• Seeds should be dried on an air permeable surface, such as a woven mat or cloth, that allows for air to circulate above and below the seed. This will prevent mold from growing on the seeds. Seeds should not be dried in direct sunlight, but in a shaded area to prevent the seeds from baking or burning on the top side.

Sowing

• Ideally, primed seeds should be sown within one day of drying. They can be stored for an additional one to two weeks if necessary and then sown. If the seeds are stored for longer than two weeks, re-priming is required.