Do seeds need light to germinate?

While some seeds require light to germinate, other types of seeds germinate better in the dark. Most seeds are indifferent to light when germinating. Seeds from plants native to forests, rain forests and jungles are more likely to require darkness than plants native to high-sun areas.

Seeds that require light for germination should be planted in shallow furrows and covered by little to no soil. Seeds that prefer to germinate in darkness require deeper planting to shield them from the sun's rays. Seeds that require light include begonias, geraniums, impatiens, petunias and snapdragons. Those preferring the dark include pansies, phlox and verbena.