It's one of the reasons I do vertical germination then came up with an actual device for it. Used to be just a CD case or DVD case but now it's a 3D printed plastic wall design deal.
Every step of the way, it lets you peek in at what's happening.
There's the pop then yes some stall and die. Some false pop by swelling with water and bursting open but nothing really grows.
There's there mutants and who knows what else.
The VG lets you watch the pop and watch the tail grow.
It should grow straight without deforming or curling. In 2-3 days the helmet naturally comes off since it's been so well saturated so no helmet head sprouts.
It prevents dampening off in most cases and simply eliminates any mystery of germination. Here's a link to how it works.
This thread is dedicated to Stak. The OG of VG🖖 These are instructions on how to use the 3D printed vertical germinator and other DIY versions such as a media disc case or ziplock baggie and a magnet. Vertical germination is nothing more than the paper towel technique stood up on end. But...
budbuilders.org