Germination Tips for Optimal Growth

Germination is the first stage of growth, when seeds begin developing roots and their first leaves. While some seeds sprout quickly, others take more time.

These tips can help improve germination success and give your yCubes a strong start.

Starting fresh on your Gardyn? Reset your SOW Date in the app before germinating a new generation of yCubes. Resetting your SOW Date activates Germination Mode, which is available to all users and helps create the right conditions for germination success.

• Starting all new yCubes on your Gardyn? Reset your SOW Date to activate Germination Mode.

• Use the Soak Method when germinating yCubes off your Gardyn.

• Do not add plant food during germination.

• Remove cardboard covers before germinating, and wait to use yCovers until after thinning.

• When germinating on your Gardyn, let Kelby manage watering and maintain 14-16 hours of Boost light per day.

• Aim for a germination environment around 70°F with 65-75% humidity.

• If using a Nursery or tray, cover it with a vented lid, place it on your Gardyn, and only add water when the rockwool is dry.

• Some seeds can take up to 21 days to sprout.

If you are germinating yCubes in a Nursery or tray, begin with the Soak Method.

The Soak Method fully hydrates the rockwool so seeds have the moisture they need to begin germination.

Only use plain water during germination.

If you are starting fresh on your Gardyn, lightly clean the system first to remove any leftover plant food residue.

Seeds already contain the nutrients they need to sprout. Adding plant food too early can interfere with germination.

Always remove the cardboard covers before germinating your yCubes, and only place yCovers after you have thinned your sprouts.

Both can trap excess moisture around the seed which may inhibit germination, and they can also physically block emerging sprouts.

If you are germinating on your Gardyn, let Kelby manage watering and maintain 14-16 hours of Boost light per day.

The rockwool in yCubes holds moisture very efficiently, so too much water can oversaturate the seed and slow or prevent sprouting. After sprouts emerge, too little light can also lead to weak, leggy seedlings.

Leggy (tall and skinny) sprouts stretched from too little light

Leaf discoloration from light stress

Seeds germinate best in a warm, moderately humid environment.

Ideal conditions

• Temperature: around 70°F

• Humidity: around 65-75%

You can find these readings in the app under Settings > Advanced.

If conditions are too cool, too dry, or too humid, germination may slow down or fail.

If you are germinating in a Nursery or tray, follow these setup tips:

• Cover it with a vented lid to help hold in warmth and humidity.

• Place it on your Gardyn’s tank to benefit from gentle warmth from the lights.

• Only add water when the rockwool is dry to avoid overwatering.

Seeds germinate best when moisture, warmth, and airflow stay in balance.

Even under ideal conditions, germination times vary by plant and by seed. Some seeds sprout quickly, while others may take up to 21 days.

For plant-specific timing, check the Plant Book in the app.

Check on your yCubes daily for signs of sprouting. Once you start seeing sprouts, it’s time to take a closer look at those leaves - click here to learn what comes next! 

Questions? Reach us at support@mygardyn.com, or chat with us. We're here to help!