By the beginning of the summer cottage season, farmers begin to examine their seed stocks, sometimes discovering packages that have celebrated their second or even third birthday.
A logical question arises: what to do with such finds?
An expert of the online publication "Belnovosti", agronomist, landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh told how long the seed material of the most common crops can be stored without compromising the quality, that is, germination.
Thus, parsley and dill seeds can last for two years – during this time nothing will happen to them.
Basil, coriander, lettuce, spinach and leeks have a three-year shelf life.
Eggplants, peppers, cabbage and carrots can be stored for 3-4 years.
Seeds of radishes, horseradish and turnips can lie in the bins of a thrifty summer resident for as long as four years.
Beets are stored for 4-5 years. Tomato seeds and pumpkin seeds can be stored for the same period. By the way, many experienced gardeners note that the yield of tomatoes grown from two-year-old seeds is higher than those obtained from fresh seeds.
Finally, melon, watermelon, squash and pattypan squash seeds can remain in storage for up to 6-7 years. The cucumber is the "long-liver" with its indicator of 7-8 years.
