In my experience, if they germinate they are fine. I tend to plant old seed a bit early, so if they don't germinate I can buy new and try again in the same season.
Agree with FB about parsnip and onion; buy new each year.
Found a lot of very old vegetables and flowers seed in my shed, many have expired since year 2012. They look fine but not sure whether they will give me any good crop or flower. Should I give it a try?
If the seeds germinate, the plants will be as good as those from fresh seed Lily. The only problem is the germination rate might be very poor with old seeds. If any of the packets have been opened before, they are probably not worth bothering with though.
A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
What I've done in the past is to do a germination test. Dampen some kitchen paper, sprinkle on a few seeds and fold the paper over. Pop in a plastic box or bag and put on a window sill, keep the paper damp and wait and see what happens. If there's signs of life use the rest of the seeds at the right time.
Many thanks everyone. You're very kind. I'll definitely try on all advice given. I'll let you know with the outcome. I breaks my heart throwing any plant or seed away Happy gardening!
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The only ones I wouldn't other with are Parsnips and Onions, both need fresh seed.
In my experience, if they germinate they are fine. I tend to plant old seed a bit early, so if they don't germinate I can buy new and try again in the same season.
Agree with FB about parsnip and onion; buy new each year.
Chuff.
If the seeds germinate, the plants will be as good as those from fresh seed Lily. The only problem is the germination rate might be very poor with old seeds. If any of the packets have been opened before, they are probably not worth bothering with though.
Put half in the freezer for 24 hours, you will be surprized.
Best of luck.
Some great advice, thanks
The germination test sounds like a great idea!! Will give it a go.
What does the freezing do TLC?
Are you going to go ahead and try your old seeds Lilly? Best of luck if you do.
I've just looked at an open packet of salad bowl lettuce I grew last year: Sow by 2009.
Nobody told the seeds they were past it
Told bye a old boy years ago to do this,
He said all seeds should feel a frost, all my seeds go in the freezer,
Also he said put your old seeds in water, them that float throw away,
This only works with round seeds.