How long does it take for pomegranate seeds to grow and sprout

Pomegranate seeds usually take 15-30 days to emerge after sowing, and the specific time is affected by factors such as seed freshness, soil temperature, humidity, light, and sowing depth. Fresh and plump pomegranate seeds germinate quickly in moist sandy loam soil at around 25 degrees Celsius, with a suitable sowing depth of 1-2 centimeters. Soaking in warm water for 24 hours before sowing can soften the seed coat and increase germination rate. Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging. Spring sowing can be covered with a thin film for insulation and moisture retention. Pomegranate seeds require sufficient scattered light for germination, but appropriate shading is needed during the seedling stage to prevent burns. The germination time of aged pomegranate seeds or improperly stored seeds may be extended to 2 months, and some may even lose their activity. Low temperature environment can significantly delay germination, and it may take more than 60 days when the soil temperature is below 15 degrees Celsius. Sowing too deeply can cause the seeds to lack oxygen and rot, while planting too shallow can lead to drying and deactivation. Untreated hard seeds sown directly may also experience delayed germination. Pomegranate seedlings grow slowly and need to maintain a stable environment in the early stages. After emergence, gradually increase the light exposure and apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Pay attention to keeping warm in winter and avoid direct sunlight in summer. Seedlings usually take 3-5 years to bloom and bear fruit. It is recommended to choose robust mother plants to collect seeds or use asexual propagation methods such as cutting and grafting to shorten the fruiting cycle.