Use Those Old Seeds!

Just four days after planting, the oldest seeds I planted (from 2006) sprouted, quickly followed by those from 2007. Here are the varieties and the companies in order of sprouting: Provencal Winter Mix, Territorial Seeds, 2006; Simpson Elite, Farmer Seed & Nursery, 2007; and Red Salad Bowl Leaf Lettuce, Denali Seed Co., 2007.

I think it is important to remember that these seeds sprouted in optimum conditions: bottom heat (they are sitting on a grated vent 2 open stories directly above the wood stove), in a relatively dark place and they were kept evenly moist. I've moved the sprouted seeds onto a window ledge - awaiting sun, but at least enjoying daylight.

You might wonder how carefully I "save" seeds. The answer is "not carefully at all." I fold the top of the original packet, toss it into a zip lock bag with other similarly folded packets, and put it in an open container in my pantry. My pantry is insulated from the rest of the house and thus, always cool, but I can't vouch for its moisture content.

I am sure many of you also use old seeds. I mean, it seems incredibly wasteful to toss them, doesn't it? I've planted old seeds for years; what's new is deliberately keeping track - verifying that my extraordinarily simple methods "work." How affirming! Now, what if the seeds from 2000 sprout?