The seeds do not germinate:

• The seeds are too old or too dry.
• The room temperature is too low.
• The seeds have been chemically treated.
• There are too many seeds in the germination container and thus they receive too little oxygen.
• The remains of detergent in the germination container hinder the germination process.

The seeds mould:

• The seeds are too moist.
• The seeds have not been rinsed often enough.
• There are too many seeds in the germination container and thus they have not been rinsed properly.
• The germination container has not been cleaned properly, with the effect that bacteria and mould inhibit germination.
• The ambient temperature is too high with the effect that micro organisms have developed.

Cleaning of the germination container:

• Generally it is recommended that germination containers are cleaned thoroughly with a brush. If the holes which allow water to flow off are blocked, these may be cleaned with a tooth pick for instance.
• Plastic and glass is best cleaned in a dishwasher as these reach higher cleaning temperatures.
• Germination containers made of clay may be cleaned with a mild solution of vinegar and water.