Dill cultivation can seem like a simple task, but gardeners often face the problem of slow or uneven seed germination. This process may take weeks, and sometimes not at all. How to avoid this?
How to encourage dill growth using vodka?
The cause of bad dill germination lies in essential oils that surround the seeds and prevent the water needed to penetrate them. One of the most popular ways to activate dill seeds is to soak them in vodka.
Not only does this method help to get rid of essential oils, it also has a disinfectant effect by killing harmful microorganisms. Due to its soluble properties, it effectively destroys the protective seed sheath, ensuring better hydration.
The process is quite simple: all you have to do is put the seeds in a container and fill the vodka so that it completely covers them.
After 15 minutes of soaking, the seeds should be washed under running water and then place on a fabric towel to dry. It is very important not to overdo the seeds vodka to avoid damaging the germ.
Alternative ways of preparing dill seeds
In addition to vodka, there is another proven seed preparation – heat treatment. For this purpose, dill seeds are placed in a cloth bag and alternately for 2 seconds immersed in boiling water and then in cold water.
The procedure is repeated 10-15 times, which helps to dissolve essential oils by preserving the viability of the seeds. After that, the bag with seeds is left in a humid state for two days, placed in a polyethylene bag.
This method is no less effective than soaking in vodka and also promotes faster germination.
How to Correct Dill and maintain them
Once the seeds are ready, you can move on to sowing. Dill loves sunny places with good, fluffy and fertile land. The soil must be prepared before digging and adding rotten manure with wood ash to improve its structure.
The seeds are sown at a depth of 1-2 cm, the distance between the rows is 15-20 cm. Sowing the soil is easily compacted and watered. The crop can be covered with a film or agrofiber that will create optimal conditions for sprouts to speed up germination.
Next, the dill should be maintained – regularly watering, loosening the soil and removing weeds. To get fresh greens per season, dill can be sown every 2-3 weeks.
Additional tips:
- Choose dill varieties that are suitable for your climate.
- Do not dill in the same place for several consecutive years.
- Fertilize dill with organic fertilizer.
- Protect dill from pests and diseases.
IMPORTANT:
- Follow the seed preparation and sowing instructions.
- Do not keep the seeds in vodka.
- Ensure dill enough moisture and sunlight.
These tips will help you get an incredible dill harvest on your plot.
Photos associative © canva
Source: https://www.bc.ua/
