Seed Viability & Germination Testing
Whether you have collected your own seeds or had some left from packages purchased last year, here are a couple of tips to know whether they will grow?
A seed viability test is a method of sprouting a few seeds to determine the percentage of seeds that are viable. In other words, what is the number of seeds from the same lot that can be expected to germinate and grow in the garden?
To do a basic viability test, the following is needed for each seed type to be tested:
- a small sample of about ten seeds
- paper towel
- resealable plastic bag (sandwich or quart size)
- plant mist bottle (optional)
- water
- marker
Mark a plastic bag with seed name, number of seeds, and date. Also, include the number of days expected for germination if available. This information can be found on the seed packet or from most seed companies on the internet. Fold a paper towel in half. Mist or gently wet the paper towel. Space the sample of seeds on half of the surface of wet paper towel. Fold the other half of the paper towel over the top of the seeds. Place the seeds in the resealable bag and seal to hold in the moisture. Put the bag in a warm, but not sunny location. Check the seeds daily for germination and moisture. Do not let the paper towel dry out. When seeds germinate, mark the quantity and date on the bag or keep a log of the results in a gardening notebook for future reference. Continue the test through the expected germination time and/or seeds cease to germinate.
Most seeds if viable will respond to these test methods. However, the actual planting method must also be considered. If the seeds need light to germinate and are not to be covered with soil, then do not cover with paper towel. If they need scarification (nick in the hard seed coat) or a period of cold exposure, then the same treatment must be applied to obtain valid viability results.
expertvillage — October 02, 2008 — Try placing saved heirloom seeds in a damp napkin in a bag to check for viability. Learn about growing greens from old heirloom seeds from an organic farmer in this free gardening video.
Expert: Daniel Botkin
Bio: Daniel Botkin is an avid organic gardener, micro-farmer and permaculture advocate who recognizes the timeliness of backyard agriculture and permaculture-style food gardens.
Filmmaker: Christian Munoz-Donoso
For more information:
http://gardening.wsu.edu/library/vege004/vege004.htm
http://www.xomba.com/will_my_old_or_saved_seed_grow_year
http://www.forkandbottle.com/garden/seeds/old_seeds.htm
http://www.worldagroforestry.org/NurseryManuals/Community/SeedHandling.pdf
Another easy way to test for the life left in large seed like peas, beans and corn is to fill a shallow pan with water and pour the seeds in. If they sink, they’re fine. If they float, toss them.