How to Check if a Sunflower Seed Is Viable

Saving sunflower seeds is an ideal way to cultivate new sunflowers from year to year. If they are stored in a sealed container in a dark, dry and cool location, sunflower seeds should stay viable for two to three years, according to Washington State University. After storage, check if a sunflower seed is viable before planting with a simple germination test. If the seeds sprout during the germination test, this indicates healthy and usable seeds.

Paper towel
Gallon size sealing plastic bag
Spray bottle filled with water
Permanent marker

Instructions

- 1
  Fold the paper towel into quarters and crease the folds. Unfold the paper towel again and lay it flat.
- 2
  Choose 10 uniform seeds without cracks or malformations and place the seeds in two rows of five on one quarter of the paper towel. Space each seed about 1/2 inch apart. Fold the paper towel again along the creases without disrupting the placement of the seeds.
- 3
  Spray the paper towel evenly with water from the spray bottle to saturate it.
- 4
  Insert the folded, damp paper towel into the plastic bag and squeeze the bag gently to remove as much air as possible. Seal the bag tightly.
- 5
  Write the date and the seeds you placed in the bag with the permanent marker.
- 6
  Place the bag in a dark location with temperatures about 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 7
  Open the bag and mist the paper towel every day or every other day to keep the paper towel evenly moist.
- 8
  Remove the paper towel from the bag after one week and unfold it. If you see growth coming out of the seeds, indicating germination, the sunflower seeds are viable. If most or none of the seeds germinated, the seeds are probably not viable.

How to Harvest Sunflowers With a Corn Picker

When to Plant Sunflowers in Sacramento

Growing Sunflowers