How long do seeds last?

I think one of my biggest beginner mistakes has been to plant every last seed in the packet. (Note to self - no household of two people needs 60+ tomato plants.)

But if I kept some of the seeds in the packet, would they be alright until next year?

Thank you.

 

Tomatoes are definitely good for at least 2 years. Keep them in the dark, in the dry cool place,
Jenny
ps try growing some of your own from seeds saved from your own tomatoes - that's good fun

 

Hi @Eldy

Most (if not all) seed packs had a use by date on the back. Normally 2 years ahead. Certainly, I think tomato seeds are viable for at least two years. Some seeds keep longer than others. Eg parsnips have a v short "shelf life". However, in my experience most seeds will germinate with a fair germination rate a year after their use-by date.
I know that a number of members on here will regularly buy their seeds at Wyvale's September seed sale, where all seeds are 50p per pack, ready for the following year's sowing.

I would say, as a general guide, sow about twice as many as you want plants of (maybe a few more, if you think you will be able to swap with friends), and try the following year. As you have found 60+ tomato plants is no joke! Keeping say 35-40 seeds back, and trying again next year may be the way forward? (But as with all things, gardening hindsight is always 20:20!)

I'm sure others will soon be along with much more knowledge than me....

 

Thank you. I think I'm going to plan a lot more next year. Actually, planning at all would be a good start. I just kind of went all kid-in-a-sweetshop and ordered loads of stuff online - and then planted almost all of it. And it has all grown. Think I may be making a swimming pool of courgette soup

 

I am appalling at reading instructions or looking at things like sell-by dates. As of next year, that will all come under the new planning regime

 

Hi Eldy , its always best to read the sowing instructions on seed packets . The seed merchants do know what they are talking about . As for seed life I will sometimes split the packet and only sew half . i.e. I really did not need 1500 nemesia seedlings ! I never keep seeds past two years , for the cost of them its not worth the risk.

 

DITTO! why do we do it! thats my plan for next year too....read and follow the blooming instructions! lool

 

When all else fails , read the instructions !

 

Hi

I keep all my seeds in the fridge the bit where you keep the garlic and stuff

 

http://gardenerscorner.co.uk/forum/threads/hes-a-dad.99520/#post-953943

Some seeds just last longer than others.

I've use 10yr old tom seeds in the past, but others have been no use after a year.

Dont think there is any real guide lines.

 

I keep all my seeds in a fridge.
In a sealed tupperwear box.
With a few of those moisture removing sachets (that you often get in the box with a new pair of shoes)