[luderiffic]

I have some old seed purchased in the spring that was kept in an outdoor shed all summer. Is it still good? What is the shelf life of seed? The seed type is TTTF. Thanks!

 

[MarkAguglia]

It should be listed on the bag, is there any label on it?

 

[ken-n-nancy]

Seed stored in a cool, dry place should last for at least 2-3 years with nearly no reduction in germination rates. Indeed, best germination is usually after 1 year, rather than in year of harvest. After about 3 years, there is a gradual reduction in germination percentage that would warrant seeding at a higher than normal rate. However, even seed that is 6-7 years old should get about 40% - 50% germination, if I recall correctly.

Google might help you find a study on this. However, I believe that the results can be highly variable.

I have personally used 4-year-old seed without noticing much of a reduction in germination.

 

[g-man]

Years, if kept dry. Actually old seed germinates better.

If in doubt, take some seeds and place in a solo cup with cotton or soil. Keep it moist and see if it germinates.

Ken-n-nancy beat me typing by 1min. I second his response.

 

[luderiffic]

Awesome, that saves me some $$$

 

[pennstater2005]

Yeah I've used seed that was a couple years old without issue. I don't think I'd be able to tell if germinate rate was less. I would assume I did something wrong

 

[Roosterchest]

Yeah I've used seed that was a couple years old without issue. I don't think I'd be able to tell if germinate rate was less. I would assume I did something wrong

Exactly.

 

[kolbasz]

I just planted 50/50 thats 3-4 years old yesterday. I am not worried. It has been in a bucket in the shed, kept dry. I figure it to be fine. I like to keep some around for when it is needed for small repairs.