How long does seed last in storage?

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George1981
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Joined: May 7th, 2018, 11:37 pm
Location: Lower Hudson Valley, NY
Grass Type: Tall Fescue, KBG
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How long does seed last in storage?

Post by George1981 » September 15th, 2021, 10:05 am

I have a partial bag of Jonathan Green Black Beauty that is 4 years old. Its been in cool, dry storage. Is it still good?

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MorpheusPA
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Joined: March 5th, 2009, 7:32 pm
Location: Zone 6 (Eastern PA)
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Re: How long does seed last in storage?

Post by MorpheusPA » September 15th, 2021, 6:11 pm

Almost certainly not. 2 years is the normal limit, but you can always take a paper towel, dampen it, scatter seed, fold it in half, and put it in a plastic bag. Check it daily to see if it sprouts.

If there's no sprout in a week, the seed is not viable. If there is, count them against the total seeds added, and divide. That'll give you the percentage viability. If it's under 40-45%, I'd advise buying new seed, although you can chance it if you want.

We should note that seeding time is passing really fast in the Hudson Valley. Using that week to test chews up time you actually need to seed the lawn.

George1981
Posts: 9
Joined: May 7th, 2018, 11:37 pm
Location: Lower Hudson Valley, NY
Grass Type: Tall Fescue, KBG
Lawn Size: Not Specified
Level: Not Specified

Re: How long does seed last in storage?

Post by George1981 » September 17th, 2021, 10:57 pm

Thanks!

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