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Home Ask MG Are year-old vegetable seeds still good?

PLEASE NOTE: In the autumn of 1995, we hatched the idea for a free, local gardening publication. The following spring, we published the first issue of Michigan Gardener magazine. Advertisers, readers, and distribution sites embraced our vision. Thus began an exciting journey of helping our local gardening community grow and prosper.
After 27 years, nearly 200 issues published, and millions of copies printed, we have decided it is time to end the publication of our Print Magazine and E-Newsletter.

Are year-old vegetable seeds still good?

February 18, 2011   •   

I have vegetable seeds left from last season that I did not plant. Will they germinate this season if I plant them? In general, for how long are vegetable seeds good?

I would guess that many of your seeds may still be viable and able to germinate. Storage conditions can improve the success ratio however. For future reference, store seeds you intend to hold over in an airtight container in a cool (40 to 45 degrees), dark place. While the viability may decrease on a sliding, downward scale over time, holding seeds for 2 to 3 years is not out of the question. When sowing these older seeds, overplant the normal rate (1-1/2 to 2 times) in the event that all the seeds do not germinate. If more come up than what you need, simply thin them out. In hindsight, if you believe your storage conditions were less than adequate, you may be further ahead to purchase new seeds. Fresh is best!

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