(Last update: December 30, 2022)
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Why should you use the temperature chart for germinating vegetable seeds?
How to use our vegetable seed germination temperature chart
How can this vegetable seed germination temperature chart help when starting seeds?
Optimum soil temperature for germinating vegetable seeds
Number of days that vegetable seedlings emerge at different soil temperatures
How can I control the germination temperature of my vegetable seed when I start the plants?
A domed shell helps retain moisture and increases germination rates
What is a soil temperature thermometer?
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help planning your garden? Let's plan your garden now!
Why should you use the temperature chart for germinating vegetable seeds?
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Finally, a germination temperature chart can help you save money. By starting your seeds at the optimal temperature, you can avoid having to buy new seeds every year.
How to use our vegetable seed germination temperature chart
The following vegetable seed germination temperature chart shows the optional temperatures at which the seeds will germinate.Don't forget to bookmark this page!If you're like me, you'll want to try it again!
- IsGermination temperature table for vegetable seeds firstshows optional temperatures for each vegetable.
- Issecond germination temperature chart for vegetable seedsshows the germination times in days for each vegetable at different soil temperatures.
The seeds are designed to germinate at different temperatures!
For example, spinach is aHarvest in cool weather. Looking at the vegetable seed germination temperature chart below, spinach will start to germinate in early spring in cool weather from 32-40F.
Harvest in warm weatheras tomatoes would not germinate at these low temperatures.
How can this vegetable seed germination temperature chart help when starting seeds?
When starting the seeds withinYou should try to keep them at the optional temperature listed in the vegetable seed germination temperature chart below.
When sowing outdoors in the garden.You can use this as a reference to know when is best to sow seeds. Don't worry if you sow too early in the garden, once the soil warms up warmer weather seeds will germinate.
To find out when is the best time to plant plants indoors or outdoors for your location, be sure to check out ourPlan my garden toolto get your personal garden plan in a few minutes.
Optimum soil temperature for germinating vegetable seeds
Grain | Minimum (°F) | Optimum Range (°F) | Maximum (°F) |
---|---|---|---|
asparagus | 50 | 75-85 | 95 |
lima beans | 60 | 75-85 | 85 |
beans, snap | 60 | 75-85 | 95 |
beets | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
Broccoli | 40 | 60-85 | 95 |
Kohl | 40 | 60-85 | 95 |
carrots | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
cauliflower | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
Saddlery | 40 | * | * |
Swiss chard | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
More | 50 | 65-95 | 105 |
cucumbers | 60 | 65-95 | 105 |
Aubergine | 60 | 75-85 | 95 |
Es | 32 | 65-85 | 95 |
Leek | 32 | 65-85 | 95 |
lettuce | 32 | 60-75 | 85 |
melons (melons) | 60 | 75-85 | 105 |
Okra | 60 | 85-95 | 105 |
onions | 32 | 65-85 | 95 |
Parsely | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
parsnips | 32 | 65-75 | 85 |
Peas | 40 | 65-75 | 85 |
Pfeffer | 60 | 65-75 | 95 |
pumpkins | 60 | 85-95 | 105 |
radish | 40 | 65-85 | 95 |
Spinach | 32 | 65-75 | 75 |
pumpkin | 60 | 85-95 | 105 |
tomatoes | 50 | 65-85 | 95 |
beets | 40 | 60-95 | 105 |
watermelons | 60 | 75-95 | 105 |
Source: California Master Gardener's Handbook, 2nd Edition, Regents of the University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Publication 3382 (Table 5.2, page 114).
*Note: Celery requires diffused light and a night time temperature that is 10 to 15°F below daytime for good germination. Optimal conditions are 85°F day, 70°F night with diffused light and high humidity.
Number of days that vegetable seedlings emerge at different soil temperatures
Grain | 32 ° F | 41 ° F | 50 ° F | 59 ° F | 68 ° F | 77 ° F | 86 ° F | 95 ° F | 104 ° F |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
asparagus | 0,0 | 0,0 | 52.8 | 24.0 | 14.6 | 10.3 | 11.5 | 19.3 | 28.4 |
lima beans | — | — | 0,0 | 30.5 | 17.6 | 6.5 | 6.7 | 0,0 | — |
beans, snap | 0,0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | 16.1 | 11.4 | 8.1 | 6.4 | 6.2 | 0,0 |
beets | — | 42.0 | 16.7 | 9.7 | 6.2 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.6 | — |
Kohl | — | — | 14.6 | 8.7 | 5.8 | 4.5 | 3.5 | — | — |
carrots | 0,0 | 50,6 | 17.3 | 10.1 | 6.9 | 6.2 | 6.0 | 8.6 | 0,0 |
cauliflower | — | — | 19.5 | 9.9 | 6.2 | 5.2 | 4.7 | — | — |
Saddlery | 0,0 | 41.0 | 16.0 | 12.0 | 7.0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | — |
More | 0,0 | 0,0 | 21.6 | 12.4 | 6.9 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 3.4 | 0,0 |
cucumbers | 0,0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | 13.0 | 6.2 | 4.0 | 3.1 | 3.0 | — |
Aubergine | 0,0 | — | — | — | 13.1 | 8.1 | 5.3 | — | — |
lettuce | 49.0 | 14.9 | 7.0 | 3.9 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 2.6 | 0,0 | 0,0 |
melons | — | — | — | — | 8.4 | 4.0 | 3.1 | — | — |
Okra | 0,0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | 27.2 | 17.4 | 12.5 | 6.8 | 6.4 | 6.7 |
onions | 135.8 | 30.6 | 13.4 | 7.1 | 4.6 | 3.6 | 3.9 | 12.5 | 0,0 |
Parsely | — | — | 29,0 | 17.0 | 14.0 | 13.0 | 12.3 | — | — |
parsnips | 171.7 | 56.7 | 26.6 | 19.3 | 13.6 | 14.9 | 31.6 | 0,0 | 0,0 |
Peas | — | 36,0 | 13.5 | 9.4 | 7.5 | 6.2 | 5.9 | — | — |
Pfeffer | 0,0 | 0,0 | 0,0 | 25,0 | 12.5 | 8.4 | 7.6 | 8.8 | 0,0 |
radish | 0,0 | 29,0 | 11.2 | 6.3 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 3.0 | — | — |
Spinach | 62.6 | 22.5 | 11.7 | 6.9 | 5.7 | 5.1 | 6.4 | 0,0 | 0,0 |
tomatoes | 0,0 | 0,0 | 42,9 | 13.6 | 8.2 | 5.9 | 5.9 | 9.2 | 0,0 |
beets | 0,0 | 0,0 | 5.2 | 3.0 | 1.9 | 1.4 | 1.1 | 1.2 | 2.5 |
watermelons | — | 0,0 | — | — | 11.8 | 4.7 | 3.5 | 3.0 | — |
Sources: J.F. Harrington, Department of Vegetable Crops, University of California, Davis, Agricultural Extension Pamphlet, 1954 "The New Seed-Starting Handbook", Nancy Bubel, 1988, Rodale Press Notes: 0.00 = little or no germination - = not tested
How can I control the germination temperature of my vegetable seed when I start the plants?
Plant seedling heater mats are a great way to accurately control the temperature of seed trays during germination. Seedling heat blankets with a thermostat can be used to precisely control soil temperature.
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Using a seed heating mat will increase germination times when set to the optimum temperatures listed above.HossTools Allehas great heating mats and controllers at a reasonable price.


A domed shell helps retain moisture and increases germination rates
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If you don't have a dome to place over your seed tray, you can use cling film as well. However, be sure to remove or unwrap them once the seedlings germinate. Here you will find a selection of curved trays fromHoss tools.

What is a soil temperature thermometer?
A soil thermometer is a useful tool for gardeners to measure the temperature of your soil.
This can be helpful in determining the best time to plant seeds or seedlings and to monitor soil temperature throughout the growing season.
Most plants prefer soil temperatures between 60 and 70°F for optimal growth, so using a soil thermometer can help you ensure your soil is at the right temperature for your plants to thrive.
There are two main types of soil thermometers: digital and analog.
- Digitale ThermometerThey are usually easier to read, but may require batteries or other power sources.
- Analoge ThermometerOn the other hand, they don't require any additional energy and can be a good choice for those who prefer a more traditional tool.
If you are in the market for a soil thermometer, thisAcuRite 00661 stainless steel soil thermometer, which has received rave reviews on Amazon, is a good option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do tomato seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for tomatoes is 65° to 85°F. Within this range, seeds will take around 6-8 days to germinate. Tomato seeds can still germinate at 50°F, but it will take longer than 40 days and probably no germination if the soil temperature is 104°F.
How long do lima bean seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for lima beans is 75° to 85°F, within which the seeds will take around 6.5 days to germinate. Lima bean seeds can still germinate at 59°F, but it will take about 30.5 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 95°F.
How long do green bean seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for green beans is between 75 and 85°F. Within this range, seeds take approximately 8.1 days to germinate. Green bean seeds can still germinate at 59°F but will take longer than 16.1 days and are unlikely to germinate when the soil temperature is 104°F.
How long do beet seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for beet seed is 65° to 85°F. Within this range, it takes about 5 to 6.2 days for seeds to germinate. Beet seeds can still germinate at 41°F, but it will take longer than 42 days and probably won't germinate when the soil temperature is 104°F.
How long do pea seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for pea seeds to germinate is between 65° and 75°F. Within this range, pea seeds will take approximately 7-6 days to germinate. Pea seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 40°F, but it takes about 36 days and no data is available on the effects of temperatures above 95°F on pea seed germination.
How long do pepper seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for germinating pepper seeds is 65° to 75°F. Within this range, pepper seeds will take approximately 8-12 days to germinate. Pepper seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 60°F, but it will take about 25 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 104°F.
How long do corn seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for germinating corn seeds is between 65 and 95°F. Within this range, corn seeds will take approximately 6 to 8 days to germinate. Corn seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 50°F, but it will take longer than 21 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 105°F.
How long do cucumber seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating cucumber seeds is between 65° and 95°F. Within this range, cucumber seeds will take approximately 4-6 days to germinate. Cucumber seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 60°F, but it will take longer than 13 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 105°F.
How long do eggplant seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for germinating eggplant seeds is between 75 and 85°F. Within this range, eggplant seeds will take about 8-5 days to germinate. Eggplant seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 68°F, but it takes about 13 days and no data is available on the effects of temperatures above 86°F on eggplant seed germination.
How long do lettuce seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for lettuce seeds to germinate is between 60° and 75°F. Within this range, lettuce seeds will take approximately 3-2 days to germinate. Lettuce seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 32°F, but it will take longer than 49 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 95°F.
How long do melons (cantaloupe) need to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for melon seeds to germinate is 75° to 85°F. Within this range, melon seeds will take about 4-3 days to germinate. Melon seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 60°F, but it takes an unknown amount of time and no data is available on the effects of temperatures above 105°F on melon seed germination.
How long does okra take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating okra seeds is between 85 and 95°F. Within this range, okra seeds take approximately 6.8 to 6.4 days to germinate. Okra seeds can still germinate at temperatures as high as 60°F, but it takes around 27 days and around 6.7 days at 105°F.
How long do onion seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating onion seeds is between 65° and 85°F. Within this range, onion seeds will take approximately 3-4 days to germinate. Onion seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 32°F, but it takes longer than 135 days and 13 days at 95°F.
How long do parsley seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating parsley seeds is 65° to 85°F. Within this range, parsley seeds will take approximately 14-13 days to germinate. Parsley seeds can still germinate in temperatures as low as 40°F, but it takes longer than 29 days and no data is available on the effects of temperatures above 95°F on parsley seed germination.
How long do parsnip seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for germinating parsnip seeds is 65° to 75°F. Within this range, parsnip seeds will take approximately 13-19 days to germinate. Parsnip seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 32°F, but it will take longer than 171 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 35°C.
How long do spinach seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating spinach seeds is 65° to 75°F. Within this range, spinach seeds will take approximately 6-5 days to germinate. Spinach seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 32°F, but it will take longer than 62 days and likely no germination if the soil temperature is 35°C.
How long do beet seeds take to germinate?
The optimum temperature range for germinating beet seeds is between 60 and 95°F. Within this range, beet seeds will take approximately 1-2 days to germinate. Beet seeds can still germinate at temperatures as low as 40°F, but it will take longer than 5 days.
How long do watermelon seeds take to germinate?
The optimal temperature range for germinating watermelon seeds is between 75° and 95°F. Within this range, watermelon seeds will take about 4-3 days to germinate. Watermelon seeds can still germinate at temperatures as high as 60°F, but will take around 11 days.
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