A Seed's Life

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Seed Trials and Test Gardens

Few seed companies conduct trials for every seed they sell, so score another point if you answered false to question #8. Instead of conducting their own trials, many seed companies rely on performance data provided by the wholesale seed suppliers. Trouble is, this performance data tends to be regionally specific, since 50% to 75% of the trials are run in California. Perhaps that's why I've seen melon varieties for sale at local seed racks that neither would nor could ever perform well in the Pacific Northwest where I garden. While California may be an ideal climate in which to grow most vegetables, it's hardly an accurate simulation of every gardener's backyard.

Increase your odds for a great gardening year by buying from a seed company that's involved in continuous trial programs, from its own test gardens to cooperative trials with testers across the country. This will also help prevent seed mix-ups (remember the yellow tomato that turned red?). While this doesn't happen often, it does happen. A company that tests a variety will catch any seeds misidentified by the grower.

This climate-controlled seed storage facility is kept at 50°F and 50% humidity.

The Ins and Outs of Seed Storage

Seeds need to be properly handled if they are to remain viable. It wouldn't take long for seed exposed to high temperatures or high humidity to lose the ability to germinate. Never leave seed packets in the sun while you're planting, and don't let them get wet.

Always be sure to store your seed in a cool, dry place. A good rule of thumb is to keep the combined humidity and temperature below 100. The ideal environment will have a 40°F to 45°F temperature, with a humidity reading of 45% to 50%. When the combined number goes above 100, the life expectancy and vigor of your seed can plummet.

Chalk up another point if you said false to question #9. For home storage, the refrigerator or freezer is a great way to go. Some experts believe that seed kept in cold storage will last ten times as long as packaged seed stored at room temperature. I would tend to agree. Seed we've stored in the freezer always seems to outperform and outlive similar varieties stored at room temperature. I've been able to get an extra five years from many seeds this way.

A word of warning: The dehydrating action of today's frost-free refrigerators and freezers can really suck the moisture out of your seed. For best results, keep seed in an airtight, moisture-proof container, such as a glass jar with an airtight lid. Since plastic can still breathe even with an airtight lid, award yourself a final point if you answered false to question #10.

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