Are Out of Date Vegetable Seeds Usable?

Out-of-date vegetable seeds may be usable, depending on how old they are and how they were stored. Neither the health of the plant or the quality of the vegetables grown are affected by the age of the seed that was sown.

Life Expectancy

• According to Oregon State University, spinach seed is viable for only one season. Corn and parsnip seeds have a life span of about one year. Beans, beets, peas, peppers and chard seed will last two years, and carrot, cucumber, lettuce and melon seeds for three years. Brassica seeds, including broccoli and cauliflower, can last for up to five years.

Conditions

• Seeds will last longer if they are stored in dry, cool conditions. Oregon State University recommends storing seeds through the winter at 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 percent humidity. Colorado State University suggests less than 8 percent moisture and temperatures under 40 F. Controlling temperature and humidity is difficult, so gardeners often store seeds in the refrigerator.

Storage

• Store seeds in an airtight container with a silica gel packet or powdered milk to absorb moisture in the jar. The jars can be kept in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark location outdoors. Allow the jar to warm in the sun or come to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation on the inside of the jar.

Considerations

• According to Colorado State University Extension, drying the seeds for six hours at 100 degrees Fahrenheit and storing in a moisture-proof container in the refrigerator or freezer will extend the life span of seeds up to 10 years.