Pics of My 2022 Seed Viability Testing

[NJCher]

Here are the instructions I used:

https://richmond.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/SeedViabilityTest.pdf?fwd=no

Basically you just put 10 seeds on a paper towel, put them in a plastic bag, label, and place them on a heat source. In this case I used a seed germination mat. In 7 days check to see if there are sprouts.

This is a good way to tell how much of a seed to plant and also to make sure you put down seed that is going to grow when springtime rolls around. I really dislike wasting space in a raised bed with seed that doesn't come up.

[Phoenix61]

1. That's a great idea.

I grew plants from seed for the first time last year. I had so many seedlings and, apparently, grew quite attached to each and every one of them. Since I couldn’t bring myself to thin them out they were all a little stunted.

[UserNotFound]

2. Yup.

That's the standard practice for checking germination rates. I use that exact model of heat mat...

[Emile]

3. Do you moisten the paper towel?

[NJCher]

4. yes

I put the towel on a plate and sprayed it with my mister spray bottle that I use for my ferns. Then I put the seeds on it & slipped it in the baggie.

[Emile]

5. Thanks, the bags keep the paper towel from drying out. I will

try this this spring.