Where do you source your seeds.

[Jimmy]

Of late I have tinkered with web based cheapo Veg seeds and also cheapo stuff like sets from the shops.
I always used to use the big seed companies because that's all there used to be.

But of recently I have had very variable results with germination.

I think the big seed companies have stringent quality control and testing but wonder if some of the web based ones do ?

Anyone had similar experiences or know what goes on ?

Jimmy

[Flummery]

I've had some zero germiantion from a big seed company - it's not as simple as it sounds. Most of my seed now comes from my own plants or from swaps with other grapes. Sustainability!

[JJSH]

This year, being my first, I was gifted all of my seeds from my Mum and one of her friends. However, they both swear by Wallis Seeds, who I will try out next year.

Mum has a rather dim view of some of the big boys.

[iggyboy]

cheapo sets,cheapo seeds? Some of us live in the real world and cheapo suits me fine! Yes,you do get some disappointments,but you also get let down by ridiculously priced sets and seeds as well. Hollow crown parsnip seeds 49p from wilkinsons own, £1.99p in the same store from Suttons! Where's the sense? Who's the mug?

[iggyboy]

Mum is always right,mate! You know it!

[Rhona]

I buy from the 'big' ones; Seeds of Italy is a fave; some smaller places, some saved, some donated; some heritage places; even B&Q if we're there and I 'need' something. Everywhere basically.

I haven't had any total wipeouts really, mostly good seed (except for my recent tomatoes from Suttons, but don't know whether to blame the seed or the compost). I did complain once about the state some seeds arrived in from T&M and they replaced them with 3 free gifts of my choice, so couldn't complain.

Having thought about this for a second, I do find my veg seed WAY more reliable than flower seed. I've deffo had some casualties there. Maybe I nurture them less?