The seed bed is the environment in which the sprouting seed must grow. The condition of the seed bed is important because: Excess water leads to seedling root diseases that destroy the seed. Cold conditions give diseases more time to work. Warmth and moisture are critical for germination. Wet soil requires more energy to warm up. The seed needs soil contact to sprout and grow — air pockets around the seed dry out the soil and slow emergence. Residue bunched in the soil or in  the seed furrow slows emergence.