Seed Storage and Longevity (Lifespan)

When you buy seeds in the UK they will have a 'use by' date on the packet. Often they will be in a sealed foil packet within the main packet. This excludes air and light which keeps the seed fresh.

Unfortunately many seeds are supplied in quantities way beyond that required for the average garden or allotment for one year.

It is curious that seeds I purchased in France have use by dates some 10 years ahead whereas those purchased in the UK have 2 or 3 years on the packet. I have asked Marshalls for comment and will update if they do!

Seed Storage

So what to do with that half packet of seeds you have left over?

The three main points are to keep the seeds cool, but not frozen, dark and to exclude air. Reseal the little silver foil packets by folding over and then place the seeds in an airtight tin or plastic storage box. Ideally you would keep them in the fridge but anywhere cool will have to suffice in most households.

Seed Lifespan or Longevity

How long your seeds will last when the packet is opened will vary according to the seed, storage conditions and how near the end of its life the seed was when packed. The table is a guide, subject to the caveats above.

Checking Seed Germination Rate

If you have a left over packet of seeds that you are unsure of, perhaps it's been kept in poor conditions or results weren't what you expected then you can check the germination rate for your seeds.

To germinate, your seeds need to think they've been sown so take a piece of kitchen roll and dampen it. Onto the damp kitchen roll put a number of seeds, 20 is good if you have a lot, and place into a plastic bag or Tupperware type container. Put into somewhere dark and warm, an airing cupboard or a closed cupboard in an occupied room.

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