As we see the seed stands being erected and the seed catalogs start arriving in the mail, we begin to think about gardening again. Even though the cost of purchasing garden seeds may be small, the results of planting inferior seeds or varieties can be great.

Before randomly ordering or buying garden seeds, obtain the list of recommended varieties from your local County Extension office, discuss the different varieties with your local nurseryman, or other gardeners and read about the different in available seed catalogs. Select disease resistant varieties whenever possible; they make your gardening easier and more rewarding. Planting the varieties best suited for your particular use and area is the first step in having a high producing vegetable garden or an attractive colorful flower garden.

When purchasing seeds, don't buy vegetable or flower seeds just because they are inexpensive or on sale. Many times these varieties are not suitable for growing in this area or are not the best varieties available.

Another thing to check on when buying bargain priced seeds, is the date on the seed packet. Seeds become less viable as they get older. Corn, onion, parsley and parsnips are relatively short lived and usually are not good after I or 2 years. Beet, cucumber, muskmelon, egg plant, tomato and most flower seeds are good for five years or longer.

Seeds should be purchased or ordered well in advance of planting time from a reliable seed company. Many times the new or improved varieties are the first ones sold out in the spring. Remember, the vegetables and flowers in your garden can only be as good as the seeds you plant.

This page was last updated April 2003

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