Well, I went through all my seed catalogs yesterday and wrote down all the stuff I have been marking that I would like the last couple of months and then today I went through my seeds.
Now I feel guilty about buying more stuff if all the ones I have are still good. I would love to list them and see if anyone wants if you think they would be all right, but don't want to send bad seeds. Some I have purchased the last couple of years and some were exchanges, etc. from here.
How long are seeds good?
Kathy, most seeds are good for a year or two, and some are good for many, many years. Generally, I think the hard shelled seeds have a longer shelf life. Of course the manner in which the seeds were stored is a contributing factor. Seeds should be stored out of light, cool, but dry. Some seeds need to be refrigerated or frozen.
If I were you, I'd offer the seeds SASE and list the probable date for them. Let those who inquire decide whether the date is acceptible or not. In most cases, I wouldn't hesitate to plant two year old seeds. I have some that are six or seven years old that still germinate for me. However, I think it is only fair to let the trader or SASEer make that decision.
Some people only want fresh seed. In most cases, they've had bad experiences with germination and believe the seed is old. Often, the problem is with the germination method, not the seed... not always, but often.
Thanks Weez, I will try and get a list together.
You're welcome! :)
Kathy - last year nearly my entire garden grew from seeds from partially used packets dating back to 1995-96. I had from 80-100% germination.
I NEVER throw out old seed without giving them a try first. The key is storage. Opened packets are taped shut, placed in glass jars or airtight plastic containers, then stored along with any unopened seed packets in a cardboard box in a spare bedroom closet. Not in a garage; not in a basement.