How Long Do Seeds Last?

Are you wondering if your seeds will germinate for the coming season? You could plant and then wait, or you could test their viability. Read how to store vegetable seeds to optimize seed life and how to test viability in my blog post from earlier this year: Seed Life and Testing Viability

Check the chart below to see how long you can expect properly stored vegetable seed to remain viable.

The years of viability in my chart above, then (citing Fedco and Johnny’s Selected Seed catalogs, and the Iowa State and Virginia Tech extensions) are averages, not guarantees—and all presume responsible storage tactics (not that you left the packet in a wheelbarrow in the garage all summer, or in your overalls pocket).
A Way to Garden