seed starting blog1

Why Did My Seeds Not Sprout? Learn the Reasons for Seeds Not Germinating

Starting from seed is one of the most satisfying parts of gardening — especially here in Saudi Arabia where cool-season planting is short and precious. But sometimes, even with the best care, seeds don’t sprout. If you’re wondering what went wrong, here are the most common causes and how to fix them for a more successful next round.

Seed tray with few or no sprouts in soil

1. Know Your Plant’s Germination Timeline

Every seed type has its own timing. Radishes and lettuce sprout in 3–5 days, while tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can take up to 10–14 days — even longer if soil conditions aren’t ideal. Carrots may need up to 3 weeks.

Tip: Always read your seed packet and wait a few extra days before panicking.

2. Watering Issues (Too Much or Too Little)

  • Too dry: In Saudi Arabia’s dry air, soil can dry out fast — especially in containers. Seeds need consistent, even moisture to sprout.
  • Too wet: Overwatering causes seeds to rot or encourages fungal diseases like damping off. The soil should be moist but never soggy.
Close-up of damp but not soggy seed starting mix

3. Wrong Soil Temperature

  • Too cold: Seeds like tomatoes and cucumbers need warm soil — above 18°C (64°F) — to sprout. Below that, they’ll sit idle or rot.
  • Too hot: Cool-season crops like spinach and lettuce may fail to germinate in warm soil above 25°C (77°F).

Tip: Use a shaded spot in warmer months and a sunny one in cooler months. For indoor sowing, use a seedling heat mat if needed.

4. Planting Depth

Planting too deep? Some seeds, like lettuce, need light to sprout. Others need complete darkness. Planting too shallow may cause the seed to dry out. Follow the packet — a general rule is planting seeds at twice their width.

Gardener planting seeds at measured depth in starter tray

5. Poor Soil Quality

Seeds sprout best in loose, well-draining soil. Heavy clay or salty soil can block root development. For container growing, use a premium organic seed-starting mix.

Tip: For direct sowing in the garden, mix in compost and sand to loosen compacted soil and improve drainage.

6. Not Enough Light (After Sprouting)

Seeds don’t need light to germinate — but once they do, they need bright, consistent light. Weak light or shade will cause leggy, unhealthy seedlings.

  • Outdoors: Avoid sowing in shaded corners or behind walls
  • Indoors: Use grow lights placed 5–10 cm above the seedlings

7. Old or Poor-Quality Seeds

Seeds lose viability over time. If you’re using seeds stored from last year or exposed to heat or humidity, germination rates may drop below 50%.

Tip: Always buy fresh, high-quality seeds and store unused ones in a cool, dry container.

8. Wildlife & Pests

Birds, ants, mice, and beetles are common culprits in Saudi gardens. They may dig up seeds or eat tender sprouts before you ever see them.

  • Use floating row covers outdoors
  • Secure indoor trays away from mice and pests
  • Sprinkle crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth to discourage ants
Floating row cover protecting seed bed from pests and birds

Final Thoughts

Germination is part science, part patience. With the right mix of soil, water, temperature, and protection, your seeds will deliver. Track what works in your garden and keep notes for your next planting season.

Every seed holds a promise. Let Botanvia help you unlock it — with premium seed varieties selected for Saudi Arabia’s growing season.