I'm 99.9% sure that seeds are engineered to germinate in the way described by my previous post. I think it may allow more root to grow before surfacing therefore gaining more strength. I remember this from science class and a grow book I read a long time ago. Give it a go next time. You'll see what I mean. Plant the seed about 0.5 to 1cm under the medium with the pointy tip facing up. Can someone who has read a lot of grow books please confirm this and/or give more information. Zandor maybe? In the mean time I will see if I can get some pictures.