Sprout cannabis seeds like a pro!

The best way to germinate cannabis seeds is the coffee filter method. We've tested it thoroughly and consistently achieved the highest germination rates. For an even better start, we recommend soaking the seeds in a glass of water for about 8 hours beforehand. After that, you can safely continue germinating them in a coffee filter. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process step by step. We’ll also cover the classic cotton pad and dish method. Both methods work well, as long as you work cleanly and hygienically. Tap water is perfectly fine to use.

These seeds germinated longer than intended, but the photo is a great example of how well this method works.

Germinating Cannabis Seeds with a Coffee Filter

The coffee filter method is our favorite technique for germinating cannabis seeds. It not only provides the highest success rate, but also ensures the root always grows in the right direction. Here’s what you need: a flat plate, a coffee filter, a large ziplock bag and of course a cannabis seed. If you buy your cannabis seeds from Dutch-Headshop, you’ll even receive a full germination kit. Simply return the damp coffee filter to the bag. The transparent window allows you to see the seeds germinating inside the filter — that’s why it’s see-through. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Fill a glass with water and soak the seed for about 8 hours.
2. Wet the coffee filter thoroughly with tap or mineral water. It should be fully moist but not dripping. Let it drain for a second, then place it on a flat plate.
3. Open the filter and place the seeds inside with the pointed end facing down.
4. Fold the filter closed so the seeds are completely covered. Put the filter back into the Dutch-Headshop bag or a transparent ziplock bag and seal it tightly.
5. Hang the ziplock bag in a warm location between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius. We’ve found that light or darkness doesn’t make much difference — as long as the seeds are kept out of direct sunlight. Use tape to stick the bag to a cupboard door or wall, for example.
6. After two to four days, the seed should have germinated. Carefully remove it from the filter and plant it root-down, about half a centimeter deep in soil. A seedling should appear within a few days.

The advantage of this method is that the root naturally grows downward. By hanging the coffee filter with the seed’s pointed end facing down, you encourage natural growth.

Germinating Seeds with Cotton and Dishes

This classic method is reliable if you follow the steps carefully. Work cleanly and thoroughly, even if you have experience. A small mistake can make all the difference. Follow the instructions below for the best chance of success:

1. Fill a glass with water and place the seed in it. Let it soak for about 8 hours.
2. Place the seed between moist cotton pads in a small dish or germination container, away from direct sunlight.
3. Use lukewarm tap water or spring water.
4. Cover the dish with a lid to maintain high humidity.
5. Check daily to ensure the setup remains moist enough.
6. Keep the temperature between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius.
7. After two to four days, the seed will split and a small root will emerge.
8. Once the root is visible, you can plant the seed.
9. Place the seed root-down, about half a centimeter deep in soil.
10. After two to three days, a seedling will emerge from the soil.

Want proof that the coffee filter method works so well that we’ve adjusted our germination kits for our house-brand seeds? Read this blog: Germinating Cannabis Seeds - Glass of Water, Coffee Filter and More

Seeds Germinated — What’s Next?

Congratulations! That was the easiest part of growing cannabis. :) That’s why we’ve written an entire series of blogs to help you through the next steps. The next phase is to give your young plant — called a seedling — the best possible environment so it can grow strong enough to move outdoors or into the grow room. Read more here: Pre-growing your Seedling.

• Don't do this: placing your plant on a windowsill and waiting for it to flower. It will become leggy and weak because it stretches in search of light. Modern double-glazed windows (HR++) block up to 30% of light — and that’s right at the glass.

• Do this: place your freshly germinated plant under a gentle grow light or in a small greenhouse.

Cannabis plants need a lot of light. That’s why you should provide suitable light for young plants right after germination. A propagator with built-in lighting works well, but a CFL grow lamp (an energy-saving bulb with cool daylight) is also a great option. If you’re planning to grow indoors and can dim the lights or switch the spectrum to “grow mode,” you’re giving your plant the best possible start.