How are flower seeds and growing media disinfected? A detailed explanation of the technical methods

Before sowing, flower seeds should undergo disinfection treatment, the purpose of which is to eliminate pathogens carried on the seed coat and in the seedling growing medium.

1. Seed disinfection

① For general flower seeds, a 0.1% mercuric chloride solution, or a 0.3% copper sulfate solution, or a 1% formalin solution can be used; soak for 5 minutes, then remove and rinse clean with sterile water, let dry briefly, and they are ready for sowing.

② For gladiolus corms and similar, warm water at 50°C can be used; soak the seeds for 20 minutes, which can prevent bacterial diseases.

2. Growing medium disinfection

① Commonly, 0.1% potassium permanganate, or zhibaosu, chlorothalonil, carbendazim, etc. is used, sprayed until the growing medium is thoroughly soaked, and then sowing can proceed.

② It is best to use steam for high-temperature disinfection of the growing medium.