苗
Meanings
1
seedling; young plant
General term for a young plant grown from seed, typically before transplanting.
I planted tomato seedlings in the garden.
2
Specifically a young rice plant, often used in agricultural contexts. See also 早苗 (さなえ).
See also: 早苗
It's the season for planting rice seedlings in the paddy.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉を植えるto plant a seedling
I planted a tomato seedling in the garden.
- 〈場所〉に苗を植えるto transplant rice seedlings into (a paddy)
The farmer is transplanting rice seedlings into the paddy field.
- 〈物〉を育てるto raise/grow a seedling
We are growing cabbage seedlings in the nursery bed.
- 〈物〉を買うto buy a seedling
I bought flower seedlings at the home center.