How to Test Old Seeds
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Suggested materials:
- Seeds (Lowes)
- Paper Towels (Amazon)
Comments
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Thelma on Oct 04, 2018
Hi, Just to let you know, seeds will stay viable for years if the packet is kept tightly closed - I use paper clips on the rolled up tops, keep the packets in tightly closed glass or plastic jars, and store the jars in a cool, dark place - I store mine in a 4-drower file cabinet in my home office where they will stay warm in the winter & cool in the summer. This year I used seed from packets I purchased in 2009 and each and every seed germinated. I know they germinated as I made seed tapes with them and spaced the seeds the correct distance apart so I wouldn't have to do any thinning. I didn't have any 'empty' spots in my garden rows either. Proper storage has saved me lots of $ over the years and I always have the exact type of seeds each year. I never lose out on a favorite vegetable due to a company changing the type of seeds they carry. Happy Gardening!!
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Courtney |The Kitchen Garten on Oct 04, 2018
Thank you so much, Thelma!
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Ann Howell-Wilson on Oct 16, 2018
Thank you so much for the tip! I'm an AVID gardener (and propagator) and I always hesitate to use old seed! Game changer!
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Courtney |The Kitchen Garten on Oct 16, 2018
I'm so glad this is helpful!
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Frequently asked questions
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Dumb question, but just want to make sure...then, you plant them, right?
Some seeds take longer than others...so how long does one wait to see?