TEST YOUR SAVED SEEDS FOR VIABILITY

 

100% of sweet basil germinated

Did you save seeds from last year or get some from another gardener? You want to make sure these seeds are viable and will grow.

The University of Illinois Extension Service notes, “Over time, seeds lose the ability to grow. Seed germination rate refers to the ability of the seed to sprout. Seed viability refers to the strength and vigor of the plant after germination. Seed viability will begin to decline before seed germination rates fall; therefore, if you have a packet of seeds and very few of the seeds germinate, the seeds that do germinate are not likely to grow strong healthy plants.”

Here is their clear step-by-step procedure to test your seeds.

Gather your materials, especially if you have a number of seeds to test. Seed packets with germination rate expected, paper towels (cut to fit your plastic container or bags), spray bottle of water, plastic bags or containers, LABELS, tally sheet.

Place 10 seeds on a paper towel

HOW TO TEST SEED GERMINATION

1. Place 10 seeds on a damp paper towel.

2. Fold the paper towel and place it in a plastic bag (snack size zip lock are good) or reusable container. This will prevent the paper towel from drying out.

3. LABEL the container with the plant name, date, and number of days expected for germination (info from seed packet). For more than one packet of the same variety of seeds, number them and put the same number on the label for the packet with the remaining seeds.

On a table in a warm room

4. Leave the container(s) in a warm place and observe for seed germination. The top of a refrigerator will do. Sunlight is not needed.

5. After the expected number of days for germination, count the number of seeds which have begun to grow.

Thai Basil seeds 7 of 10 =70%

If all 10 seeds grow, plant as normal. If seven to nine seeds grow, increase the number of seeds you plant. If six or fewer seeds germinate, it is best to buy new seeds.

Once you have the results you will know if you need to buy seeds packed for this year.

Carol Kagan/MasterGardener

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