Dead seeds

Did anyone see the report in the paper that up to 99% of the seeds you buy in a packet could already be dead when you buy the packet. I have always assumed that my sowing technique was at fault, when only two seeds out of a packet germinated. But then I read in a book by Christopher Lloyd that once he purchased 500 grams of seed, and only one germinated.

 

Spotted that Peter, T&M came out as having the best germination rate

 

Depends what you buy. I was given a packet of T and M blue poppy seed and it was nearly all dead - only 2 germinated. They should be OK with the stuff like annuals, half hardy annuals and vegetables but then they should at the prices they charge.

 

Dear me, that's a bit discouraging. I thought it was me too. I guess it'd be good to collect your own seed, where possible, or do a seed swap with other gardeners?