We consider seeds to be a given. If we plant them, we believe they’ll develop and grow into an edible crop or flowers if that’s the intention.

However, seeds do not always sprout. Even if it does, then the plants may develop differently than planned. My research at Oregon State University is looking at methods to increase the yield of hemp by examining ways to improve the vigor of seeds and viability. My research focuses specifically on the types of hemp which produce high levels of CBD oil.

Viability is the capacity of seeds to germinate and start growth. That is, of course, assuming they have the right conditions. The location where the source is placed significantly impacts its capacity to develop.

Sometimes, a seed can be viable, but it will not grow when planted. This is usually due to the origin staying in a state of dormancy. When it comes to dormant seeds, specific physical or environmental conditions need to be present to trigger the process of germination. For instance, many sources must go through an initial chilling phase before sowing to bring them from dormancy.

Researchers at Oregon State University are experimenting with biostimulants to increase the seed germination rate and strength of the seedlings of CBD hemp seeds. Provided by Sabry Elias

Seed vigor refers to the capacity of seeds to rapidly produce steady, healthy growth of plants under an array of environmental conditions.

I’m thinking of using “seed enhancements” to improve the viability and vigor of hemp seeds. In general, seed enhancements do not boost the viability of seeds. However, they could increase the germination rate and their energy. Seed enhancement aims to increase the chance of establishing an enviable crop.

Applying products to seed before planting can help the grower save time and money. The alternative is using the product for the entire field following planting. This could mean two trips across the area. Thus, treating seeds before planting is logical.

In addition, by treating the seed, we ensure that the substance is in contact with the root or seedling after germinating. If spread over the field, a variety of factors can stop the treatment from coming into contact with the seed, such as rain and soil conditions, as well as wind.

Many types of commercial applications for seed treatment are available, but two famous cases are seed priming and coating.

The progress of CBD hemp seeds after soaking in biostimulants for three days. The biostimulants studied were specifically certified organic humic and fulvic acids solutions. Provided by Sabry Elias

Priming of seeds usually involves soaking seeds in a solution, such as water or a chemical, for a set period of period. The seeds are then taken out of the answer before germinating. The seeds are then planted into the soil. The purpose behind this, in general, is to increase the speed or consistency of seed germination after the seeds are placed on the ground.

Seed coating: The term “seed coating” involves coating seeds before planting using either liquid or dry products. Various varieties come using seeds coated with pesticides or other plant growth products.

Traditional plant growth products like organic fertilizers, synthetic pesticides, and chemical fertilizers were marketed and utilized in seed priming and on seed coatings. However, there is increasing demand for solutions made from organically certified products.

A new class of products being studied as a possible alternative for seed treatment are biostimulants, namely Humic substances. Biostimulants are substances that were defined by the USDA farm bill as “substances or microorganisms that, when applied to seeds, plants, or the root zone, stimulates natural processes to enhance or benefit nutrient uptake, nutrient efficiency, tolerance to abiotic stress, or crop quality and yield.”

Humic substances are organic compounds that are found in soils as well as other sources of natural origin. Humic substances, particularly fulvic acid, and humic acid, have been proven to possess biostimulant qualities. These include boosting the seed’s germination and root and shoot growth in various plants.