Will They Germinate?

Winter is a good time to test seeds that have been stored to see if they are still alive. John Cretti, host of HGTV's Winter Gardener, suggests two ways to test for germination:

Method 1 (Grandma's way):

1. Fill a mason jar about three-fourths full of water.
2. Pour seeds directly into the quart of water.
3. If the seeds sink to the bottom, they are good.
4. If the seeds float on the top, they shouldn't be used.
   

Method 2 (An alternate method):

1. Moisten a paper towel thoroughly with water from the spray bottle.
2. Place a handful of seeds (ten or more) on the paper towel.
3. Fold the paper towel over a couple of times.
4. Moisten the towel again with the spray bottle.
5. Put the towel into a plastic bag and tie with a twist tie.
6. Put the plastic bag in a warm spot, such as on top of the refrigerator.
7. Every three to five days, check to see how many seeds have germinated.
8. If you have seven to eight germinated seeds, you have a good return.
9. Sow the seeds at a normal rate.
10. If five or less out of ten germinated, you probably need to buy new seeds.

Also in this Episode

Winter Gardener : Episode TWG-113
•	Winterize a Water Garden
•	Yellow-Groove Bamboo
•	Will They Germinate?