What is germination?
- Germination occurs when you have moisture, oxygen and the proper temperature.
- First sign of germination = absorbs water.
- Water activates an enzyme that increases respiration of the plant cells.
- Embryo continues to absorb water and cells start to duplicate.
- Embryo enlarges until it is too big for seed coat and it bursts through the seed coat.
How long will seeds live?
All seeds need to germinate within a certain amount of time or their embryo will die. Examples:
- Some maples need to germinate within 2 weeks or they die
- Lotus plant seeds have been successfully germinated after 2000 years!
- Most herb and vegetable seeds last 1-5 yrs under typical home storage conditions
Vegetable and Herb seed guide – How long are seeds good for?:
| 1-2 years: | 3-4 years: | 5-6 years: |
| corn, leeks, onions, parsley, parsnips, peppers | asparagus , beans and peas, beets, cabbage family, carrots, eggplant, squash and pumpkins, tomatoes | cucumbers, lettuce, melons, spinach |
Here is a really good website: Grow an Herb Garden
How to check for seed germination
- Dampen a paper towel and fold it in half or quarters.
- Place seeds (number depends on size) on half the paper towel and cover with the other half, unless seeds require light for germination
- Place paper towel into plastic bag and seal loosely
- Label bag with date and seed variety.
- Place in warm location (tops of fridge or near water heater work well).
- Leave for 2-3 days (check to be sure paper towel is still moist- may need to add water).
Resources:
Grow an Herb Garden
The Tasteful Garden – Herb Gardening for Beginners
Starting Seeds Indoors from Purdue Univ