Don’t throw out outdated seed packets simply but

I used to be wanting over my leftover packets of seed and observed the next stamped on the packets: packed for 2022, promote by 2022-10-31. Does this imply that these seeds can have expired by planting time subsequent spring and not be good to make use of?

— Justin Hanou, Northbrook

The seeds that you just bought this yr needs to be simply effective so that you can use subsequent yr if correctly saved. Many industrial seed packets can have comparable wording on them, suggesting a “use by” date to assist make sure that prospects will get proportion of germination from the seeds they’ve bought.

Many seeds will stay viable for a number of years previous the “promote by” date on the packet. Seeds don’t spoil like meals does, however the germination fee of the seed will decline over time. The speed of this decline in germination will rely upon the species of the plant. Many sorts of seeds, although not all, will retailer nicely for 3 years and keep an honest proportion of germination. In case your seeds are older, then sow extra of them with the expectation that the proportion of germination shall be lowered.

The correct storage of seeds is essential and comparatively easy. Hold them in a cool and dry place till you’re able to sow them. A basement cupboard will work for a lot of gardeners. The seed needs to be shielded from freezing. Mice will eat the seeds so you have to to maintain the seeds in a protected cupboard. Keep away from storing the seeds in places which can be heat and moist. In the event you resolve to place the seeds in a sealed plastic container, then embody a desiccant packet or a packet of dry rice to assist maintain the seeds dry. The next listing is how lengthy frequent seeds can be utilized previous their expiration if saved correctly.

One yr: Onion, leek, parsnip and parsley seeds.

Two years: Okra, pepper, candy corn and spinach seeds.

Three years: Arugula, inexperienced bean, lima bean, broccoli, carrot, lettuce and pea seeds.

4 years: Beet, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, Swiss chard, eggplant, tomato, kale, collard, mustard and rutabaga seeds.

5 years: Celery, bok choy, endive, melon, turnip, radish and watermelon seeds.

Six years: Pumpkin, summer season or winter squash and cucumber seeds.

For extra plant recommendation, contact the Plant Info Service on the Chicago Botanic Backyard at plantinfo@chicagobotanic.org. Tim Johnson is senior director of horticulture on the Chicago Botanic Backyard.