It generally stays around 6.5
No heat mat. I've been leaving my light on 24hr to try and keep a steady temp. It's about 77F and 65%rh.
Let me just tell you my method so you have the info to do what you want with.
I use the same spring water for germination as I do for feeding.
Soak about 18 hours in water (just a couple ounces in a cup, sitting on a table)
Place the soaked seed in a damp (nice and damp) paper towel, inside of a sealed Tupperware, placed on top of the pot of soil the seed will live in, light on , adjusted to about 50% strength.
After 24 hours, if the seed has any visible tail whatsoever, I plant it, nice and deep so it sheds the husk. I make the hole with my finger, place root side down, and sprinkle dirt in the hole until it’s covered. I water, mostly around the hole (also water into the hole prior to adding the seed), but a good splash on top.
If the seed hasn’t cracked yet, wait another 24 hours, and check. If the seed has cracked, I plant, following the above method.
From that point on, I make sure the soil around the seed is moist, and if need be, water just a few ounces around the seed, so as not to overwater. Usually start seeing them pop up around three days.
If a seed doesn’t crack, I still usually plant it, keep it watered…. They usually still pop up. On occasion, I’ve had them take a couple weeks before they go. Just keep adding the water without overwatering, and something usually happens…..
