What Happens If You Don't Water After Planting Seeds?

Water and Germination

• Most seeds need water to germinate. When the soil is at the right temperature, water is able to enter the dry seed. This water absorption, called imbibition, causes the seed to swell and break the seed coat. The water also begins metabolic processes in the seed that tell the dormant seed embryo to start growing. Within days after the embryo starts growing, it sends a small root into the soil. Shortly after this root takes hold, the first shoot emerges from the soil. Without water to start this process, the seed won't sprout. The temperature required for water to enter the seed varies depending on what you're planting.

Preplanting Treatment

• Some seeds have seed coats that are so strong water can't readily penetrate the coat. In this case, you need to rub the seeds over sandpaper or a file to lightly scratch the seed coat. This process is called scarification. Annual sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) are one example of seeds that benefit from scarification.

  Although they don't need scarification, annual legumes, squashes and nasturtium (Tropaeolum spp.) have tough seed coats. These seeds sprout more readily if you soak them in a moist paper towel overnight before planting. Keep the towel in a plastic bag to keep it moist.

Seeds Started Indoors

• If you start your seeds indoors, you are the only source of water for your seeds. The key is to keep the soil moist but not wet. As soon as you plant your seeds, use a spray bottle to moisten the soil. You don't want to pour water onto the soil, because this can dislodge the seeds. Check the soil each day and spray it again if the soil looks or feels dry.

  Another watering option is to place your pots in a tray and pour an inch of water into the tray. Add more water to the tray only if the top of the soil looks or feels dry. If you opt to use a greenhouse-style tray with a plastic lid, remove the lid as soon as you see seedlings emerge; the excess moisture from the lid can cause a fungal disease that kills seedlings.

Seeds Started Outdoors

• Seeds planted directly outside are able to pull water from the soil and receive additional water from rain showers. During dry weather, you want to mist where you planted the seeds.

  A bigger concern for seeds started outside is the soil becoming too wet, causing the seeds to rot or remain too cold for germination. You can prevent both problems with a layer of plastic over the soil. After misting the soil, lay clear plastic over the area. This creates a greenhouse effect to warm the soil and prevents heavy rains from washing your seeds away. Check the plastic daily. As soon as you see seedlings, pull up the plastic to prevent fungal problems. If your seedlings still need protection, consider installing raised row covers.