Go Back
–+ servings
seeds sprouting
Print Recipe

Testing Seeds for Viability

Easily test your garden seeds to find out if they are still viable for germination.
Prep Time5 minutes
Germination Time14 days
Total Time14 days 5 minutes
Course: Gardening
Keyword: how to tell if seeds are still viable, seed germination, testing seeds for germination
Servings: 1
Author: Mary Woita
Cost: 5

Equipment

Ingredients

  • seeds for testing
  • paper towels
  • or coffee filters
  • snack size plastic bags

Instructions

  • First, gather all supplies and select the seeds that you want to test for germination.
  • Use your spray bottle and fully saturate the paper towel. It should be thoroughly wet, but not sopping/dripping.
  • Place the desired seeds on the paper towel and fold into thirds lengthwise. Then in thirds again so that the seeds are visible through the backside.
  • Place the paper towel inside of the snack bag and zip shut a bit more than halfway, leaving the end unzipped.
  • Label the baggie with a sharpie and repeat for each additional seed variety you are testing.
  • Place in a warm place for 2-14 days. Check on the seeds for germination after a couple of days.
  • If the paper towel starts to become dry, spray with more water...never allowing it to dry out.

Notes

Each seed variety has different germination needs or timing. Some can start to sprout within a couple of days. And others can take a couple of weeks.