How Long Are Vegetable Seeds Good to Plant?

Definition

• Vegetable seeds are baby plants in a dormant state. Inside of the seed is an embryo surrounded by a food source that will feed the growing plant when activated with water and sunlight. Since seeds are alive, it is possible for the embryo to die before it is planted.

Storage

• Seeds last longest when stored in an dry, cool location. According to North Carolina State University's website, seeds should be stored at temperatures near 40 degrees F with low humidity. Storing plants in foil packages or airtight containers can also help to keep moisture away.

Lifespan

• Most seed packets provide an expiration date, often one year from the growing season they were packaged for. The University of Colorado Cooperative Extension website suggests that drying seed outdoors in 100 degrees F temperatures can further reduce the seeds' internal moisture content and extend its viability to about 10 years.