How Long are Seeds Good?

   Opinions vary on this question. I have found most seeds are viable for 3 years with the exception of Tomatoes, Squash, Pumpkin (which is really squash), Melons, Brassicas, Lettuce, Chard, and Cucumber. These should be viable for 3-5 years. Keep in mind that seeds are perishable. This means they must be kept in a cool, dry place in a sealed container. I keep mine in a double seal gallon freezer bag in my coldest refrigerator (the one I use for cold drinks). Heat and humidity can be a death sentence to them.

   You for sure want to test seeds that are old before you plant them. My suggestion is to dampen (pretty wet) a full-sized paper towel (fold it) and put 10 seeds on top and then put in a dish or plastic bag. Simply set the dish or bag in a warm sunny spot. Keep it moist and in a week or so you should see sprouting seeds. If 8 out of the 10 begin to sprout you have a germination rate of 80% so plant them. However, if only 2 or 3 begin to sprout throw them away and buy new seeds.