Testing Seeds Before Storing Over Winter
I like to test the seeds I collect from my garden (or at least the ones I really care about) to make sure that they will actually germinate the following year. I’m an over-thinker, so just doing an easy test to make sure the seeds that I carefully scooped, rinsed, and dried are still viable is definitely worth the peace of mind! I would hate to save seeds only to find out they have a poor germination rate the following year at planting time. If you are the same, here is a quick method that you can use to test your seeds before tucking them away in your seed box.
Step by Step Instructions:
- Grab a paper towel and a ziploc bag or airtight container.
- Dampen the paper towel. Not soggy-wet, just moist. (I know, I know… that word is awful)
- Lay out about 10 seeds on it. The more seeds you do, the more accurate your test will be, but I like to do 10.
- Fold the paper towel over the seeds, tuck it into a plastic bag, and seal it up.
- Write the date on it – this can help a lot if they take a little while to germinate and you don’t remember when you started the test.
- Leave the bag somewhere warm like a shelf or windowsill – somewhere you will see it every day and not forget about it.
- Check in on them every day, and if the towel seems dry, give it a spritz of water. Veggies typically germinate in 4-10ish days, but it will depend on what kind of seed you’re testing of course.
The math part (don’t panic):
If 8 out of 10 seeds sprout, you’ve got a 80% germination rate. That is good enough for me!
If 2 out of 10 seeds sprout, that’s a 20% rate, and I would suggest buying new seeds unless you enjoy disappointment.
If you’re somewhere in the middle, I would mark the package you’re storing them in so you remember for next year and can make sure to plant extra.
That’s it!
It’s pretty easy to do. It’s great for testing old seeds too, if you are wondering if that packet from 2-3 years ago is still good. Just give them a little germ test and find out! Happy gardening 🌱
Tell me what other methods you have tried or any interesting seed test stories in the comments, I would love to hear them.
Here is a video of my successful Cantaloupe seed test today. It was such a tasty cantaloupe I really wanted to save these seeds and make sure they were all bueno for next year before tucking them away!
