Gardening Pacific Northwest - saving seeds

[Q & A]

Using leftover seeds

Question: I have some seeds left over from previous years, and I'm wondering whether I need to buy new seeds.

Helen says: Whether leftover seeds will germinate and grow with vigor depends upon the kind of seed and the way it has been stored. Under ideal dry, dark storage conditions with cool temperatures that fluctuate little, most flower and vegetable seeds will retain their vitality for about three years.

Exceptions are parsnip, onion, leek, corn, salsify, verbena, gerbera, strawflower, geranium, salvia, lily and larkspur. These have a short life and should be kept no more than one year for sowing a second time.

At the other end of the seed longevity scale are durable longtimers such as zinnia, nasturtium, salpiglossis, cucumber, squash, cantaloupe, watermelon and beet, which will commonly keep in good viable condition for six years or more. When you buy new seeds this year, write 1998 on the packets so that you'll have a record of their age.

Another thing you can do if you are dubious about the condition of any seeds is to test them. Wrap 10 seeds in damp paper toweling and put them in a warm place. Keep the toweling damp. If no more than five seeds have germinated after three weeks, consider purchasing a fresh supply. Or, make a note on the packet to sow thickly.

VISITOR's GUIDE

PROBLEMS? Notify Webmaster
© Copyright 1998-99, all rights reserved worldwide. Slugs and Salal is a division of Cascadia Communications Edge