Monday 11 February 2008

Germination test

I came across a way to test whether seed is still viable. Dampen some paper towel, and sprinkle a few seeds from the out-of-date packet across it. Roll it up, put it in a plastic bag and keep it somewhere warm (like on the top of the fridge or some electronic equipment that stays on). Check after two days, then at least once a day after that, making sure the paper doesn't completely dry out.

If half of the seed germinates, plant more closely than usual for the same yield.

I guess you could also plant the germinated seeds (still on the paper towel). Even if nothing germinated, I'd probably throw it all in the garden anyway, just in case!

No comments: