Pre-germinate grass seeds?

Question

Hello, 
I am trying to grow some turf grass hydroponically, but I do not have any experience growing so hopefully I could get some input and advice to help me get started.  

I'm working with 3 strains of turf grass; Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass and Perennial ryegrass.  I started by soaking the seeds in water to start the germination process before planting the seeds into a medium..  I've been soaking for 12 hrs, draining/resting the seeds for 12hrs then re-soaking for 12 hrs and so forth. I've done this for 48 hours now, but I'm not sure if I should keep soaking the seeds.  Is it possible to over soak the seeds? I can't seem to find much info about pre-germinating turf type grass seeds.  One site says soak turf grass seeds for at least 4-5 days, while other sources say not to soak seeds in general for more than 24 hours.  Guide for grasses like wheatgrass say to soak for 12 hours and the sprouting seems to start within 24 hours.   

 I'm primarily interested in only keeping the grass alive for a few weeks.  If that is the case, are nutrients necessary?   I am aware that there are grasses out there, like wheatgrass, that only need water to grow until it is harvested (1~2 weeks of growing).  

Any input would be appreciated.  
Thank you.

fluffernut · Accepted Answer

I guess I'm worried about the submersion for so long.  Normally a seed it mositened but there is still air 'about'. So I'd lean towards no more than 24 hours otherwise the seeds may die.  Often you can germinate them on moist paper like blotting paper, in a covered container..but watch out for mold.  The paper towel trick we used in school, moisten several layers of paper towel, spread seed out, roll up and the.......I had the best luck putting it a tall jar with a tiny bit of water in the bottom but the top exposed.  Evaporation from the top pulled the water onto the paper keeping moisture and a proper humidty level.  Every time I placed into plastic bag or other sealed vessel, I got mold. 

What is your growing medium, can the germination occur on it?  

Perennial rye should be the first to germinate

? · Answer

Pre Germinate Grass Seed

Anonymous · Answer

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RE:
Pre-germinate grass seeds?
Hello, 
I am trying to grow some turf grass hydroponically, but I do not have any experience growing so hopefully I could get some input and advice to help me get started.  

I&#39;m working with 3 strains of turf grass; Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass and Perennial ryegrass.  I started by...

Anonymous · Answer

In this process, Milorganite bulks and dries the seed.  This helps make the seed easier to spread uniformly and accurately.  Milorganite, having virtually no salt, will not cause seed damage.

    Place the grass seed in a porous material.  Use a cheesecloth or burlap sack.  Tie at the top to form a bag.
    Place this sack with seed in a covered container.  A fish tank works well for this.
    Soak the seed in water for 3 to 5 days.  Bluegrass should be soaked for 5 days.
            Make sure all seed is wetted.
            Place container in a dark area.
            Maintain temperature at 65 to 72 degrees F.
            Change water every 12 hours.
    After 3 to 5 days, remove seed from container.
    Drain excess water from seed and bag.
    Prepare seeding area.
    Mix seed with Milorganite.
    Lightly incorporate seed into soil by lightly raking or, if on sandy soils, watering.
    Irrigate lightly and frequently.  Keep seed moist.
    Follow specific seed starting instructions for the seed variety that you are using.


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Pre-germinate grass seeds?

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