Seeds Cracked but No Taproot: Explained in Detail

While you are eager to see that taproot out of your cannabis, it’s not there! We know it can be quite frustrating to not know what exactly is happening. Especially if you’re all new to grow gardening.

Wondering why seeds cracked but no taproot?

Even after cracking, there might not be any taproot because of seed damage. Then again the medium or method you are using might be prone to tactical handling errors. Lastly, the substrate heat might be too much for your seed to handle. It might cause taproot cells to dry and die out.

But just this much information is surely not enough. Don’t worry, cause we’ve written a whole article just for you. 

Seeds Cracked but No Taproot: Reasons with Solutions

Whether you are growing cannabis or another plant, the germination stage is always a worthy concern. You are always thinking if that cannabis seed will grow or not. Just when 3 days have passed and you still haven’t seen the root, it feels horrible!

So even after all the effort, why can’t you see the taproot? Maybe you are just getting the small factors wrong. 

Here we have tried to elaborate on the whole scenario for you.

Reason 1: Seed Damage

In the germination stage there’s not much you can do or provide for the seed. But still, mess-ups occur, most of them while changing the medium or in handling. 

So, which method should I choose for germination?

For germination, the beginner’s choice would be the paper towel method. It is easy to use and manipulate. Also, you can observe the seed better this way. Although, experienced gardeners might choose otherwise. 

Even the seed itself might have problems. Like little seeds in a swollen calyx.

Now let’s dive right into the method-based analysis. If you are using the paper towel method, some things might go wrong. Like placing the seed in a paper towel. Then again comes the checking.

So, should I regularly check my seed in germination? 

Yes, you can check them regularly. In fact, you are encouraged to do it. But some people tend to harm the seeds in the process.

While you are removing the upper towel layer, it’s possible to apply pressure on the seeds. In this process, the stem cells in the seed might be harmed. Or maybe the tip cells of the root might be damaged. 

Now, we understand if you want to use other methods. Like the water method. While this is a fast root development method it also has its downsides. One of them is you have to change the water after two days.

When you are changing the water, obviously you have to put the seeds aside. 

This is a very sensitive time for the seed and the slightest mistreatment can drastically harm its growth. Apparently, the significance of water in germination is astonishing.  

Again you can use the common soil method. Here there is nothing much that you can handle yourself. Aside from placing the seed of course. 

So, how deep should I dig my plant seed?

Not more than twice the seed width. Any more than that and the soil might apply more pressure on the plant. That is when you are covering it with soil.

Solution: Cautious Handling

Handling the seed is important in whichever method you use. Here, 

In the paper towel and water method, while handling the seeds, you can use tweezers. By this, you can pick up and place the seeds without applying additional pressure.

Then comes the soil method. Be careful to not dig the hole more than twice the size of the seed. Also gently put the soil on the seed. Don’t pressurize it.

Reason 2: Faulty Medium

Setting the right environment for your seed is the most important and tricky part. Even the slightest errors could cause harm to the seed. Thus stopping the taproot growth. 

Like, in the paper towel method, it’s possible to make it damper. Now, this can go both ways. 

So, should I plant my seeds on wet paper towel?

Yes, planting seeds in a wet paper towel ensures the seed has enough moisture to absorb. Although too much dampness might cause excessive humidity. But if it is too low then the seed might die from drying out.

So just because of this silly mistake, your desired taproots might not appear.

Then, if you prefer the water method, you have to be aware of some basic factors. Like sometimes the water might be more heated than normal. Which can cause the seed to stop growing.

Again abnormal ph levels also harm the taproot. Just after sprouting, the taproot remains very sensitive. So, lower or higher ph levels harm the tip stem cells. This totally stops the taproot growth.

The ph level is also important in the soil method. If the potting soil has abnormal ph levels, it affects the taproot growth adversely. Also, added levels of soil temperature harm the germination process. 

Lastly, too much water in the soil pots has adverse effects on plant seeds. That’s why you should know how much water to use in different size pot. 

Solution: Adjust Factors

In both the water and soil methods, the proper humidity level is a big factor. Because of the added humidity levels, the seed might face a fungus attack(Pythium and Fusarium). 

In this case, be sure that both the soil and paper towel is not too wet. Just keep it comfortable enough for your seed. You can use a blower dryer if the soil surface seems to contain excess moisture. 

Also, is too much nutrient bad for your seed? 

Yes, extra levels of nutrients in the potting soil might be toxic for the seed. It might cause nutrient burn in the seed. 

So, try to maintain proper levels of fertilizers according to a specific feeding chart. 

For the water method, what water ph level is the best for seed germination? 

The best possible ph level in the water method would be 5.5 – 6.5. Although various species have their own preferred ph levels.

So try to maintain a ph level of 5.5 – 6.5 for proper taproot growth. Use a soil ph meter to keep a regular check on the ph level of your soil.

Reason 3: Substrate Heat

It is really common to use heating mats on a substrate. But sometimes, if the heat is too much then the seed might dry up. This could cause the inner taproot cells to dry up as well.

Thus, it loses its potential of breaking out as a taproot.

Solution: Adjust Heat Levels

So, how to adjust heat levels in heating mat?

To adjust the heat levels in a heating mat, press and keep holding the set button. Hold for 3 seconds. This will cause the heating mat to enter temperature selection mode. Now you can just set the desired temperature by pressing the up and down arrow. 

Want to provide your seeds the sweet temperature it needs to ensure higher germination chances? Check out these amazing Heat mats for total control over the seed temperature:

These heat mat ensures that your seeds get to grow in the optimal temperature setup. And they all come in a combo with a digital thermostat controller! Try them out today!

Think you need some more information that we might’ve missed? Check out this really informational youtube video on why your cannabis seed won’t germinate:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Can be Considered a Good EC Level?

For unharmed plant growth, the EC level should be between 1.2 – 2.0. This ensures proper bioprocesses in plants. EC stands for Electrical Conductivity and it is a measurement of salt concentration in your nutrient solution. The higher the salt concentration level is, the higher would the EC level be. 

Does Water Type Affect Seed Germination?

Yes, poor quality water like municipal water in some areas might have adverse effects on plants. In these cases, the water might have excessive salt levels. Also, it can have added amounts of unnecessary minerals. Again, it might also be contaminated by heavy metal particles. These are really bad for seed germination.

Can Plastic Pots Cause the Root to Rot?

It can make the root rot in certain circumstances. If the plastic pot is sealed, it’ll block the water to drain completely. While your pot looks dry from the upper surface, water is stored in the lower part. This extra water causes the root to suffocate. Which, in turn, causes the seed’s root to rot.

Bottom Line!

Now let’s hear what you have to say.

Were we able to solve your queries about seeds cracked but no taproot?

Well, here is one additional piece of information. While examining a seed embryo, touch it carefully with the sharp sterilized tip of a pin or knife. 

If there is anything else on your mind, be sure to comment down below.