Germination rates decline rapidly as seeds dry, so timely planting is essential .
Preparing and Germinating Clove Seeds
To encourage germination, lightly scarify each seed—gently nick or sand the shell to aid water absorption . Soak the scarified seeds in warm water (about 70–80 °F or 21–27 °C) for 12‑48 hours .
Some gardeners add a drop of seaweed extract to the soak water to enhance sprouting .
Once soaked, sow seeds in seedling trays or small pots filled with a well‑draining potting mix—such as sandy loam mixed with compost, peat, or perlite (e.g., 50 % sandy loam, 30 % compost, 20 % perlite) . Plant seeds about ¼‑to‑½ inch (½–1 cm) deep; cover lightly with soil or simply place seeds on top depending on soil depth and seed size . Keep conditions warm (75–85 °F or 24–29 °C), humid, and softly lit—bright, indirect sunlight is ideal . Cover trays with plastic or a humidity dome to retain moisture .
