the viability of seeds

[carolineholding]

I'm sure there are already threads on here about this but i was wondering about the viability of (mainly) veg seeds

we all know that the carrot family don't last too well but about the others?

I've noticed that peas and beans seem to last well and I'm still sowing brassicas that I bought almost 5 years ago. Leek and onion seeds seem to last ok but beetroot and chard not so well.

Is this everyone else's experience? are there exceptions to the rule? does any body know of any good links to guides?

thanks

[Nicos]

Here you go....



Asparagus 3 years
Aubergine 5
Beans 3
Beetroot 4
Broccoli 5
Brussels sprouts 5
Cabbage 4-5
Carrot 3-4
Cauliflower 4-5
Celeriac 5
Celery 5-6
Chicory 5
Chinese cabbage 5
Cucumber 5-6
Endive 3-4
Fennel 4
Kale 5
Kohl rabi 5
Leek 3
Lettuce 4-5
Marrow 5-6
Melon 5
Onion 1-2
Parsley 2-3
Parsnip 1-2
Pea 3
Pepper 4
Pumpkin 4
Radish 5
Salsify 2
Scorzonera 2
Seakale 1-2
Spinach 5
Sweetcorn 1-2
Tomato 4
Turnip 5
Watercress 5

Of course- these are average times, it depends on how the seeds are stored...the best thing to do is to sprinkle a few onto some damp kitchen paper and cover with cling film or a plastic bag and keep them in a warm place. You'll soon see how viable they are

[PAULW]

Grain from pyramids 5000 yrs, ps no foil packs

[Alison]

Brassicas last for ever as do tomatoes and peppers, have sown them with nigh on 100% germination when they've been well over 10 years old

[Alison]

Oh and peas and beans last for ages too

[Nicos]

Having seen so many lists I have to say it's a bit like a piece of string...and everyone's is different!!!

( although I have to say fartsnips never seem to germinate for me over 1 year of age!!!)

[veggiechicken]

I don't have much luck with onion seeds - though leeks are OK.

[daviddevantnhisspiritwife]

Same here, pah. Onions to be treated like parsnips for me from now on in.

[Lazy Gardener]

In 2011 i planted some peas with a sow before 2006 label.

Had loads of them. Fighting for space because i thought only a few would take so
chucked a load in the ground.

[carolineholding]

Damn! *runs out to buy more onion seeds*