Testing Old Seed Viability with the Paper Towel Method

Before planting leftover seeds from a seed club or previous years, test their germination rate. Place five seeds on a damp paper towel, roll it up, seal in a plastic bag, and set in a warm spot (top of the refrigerator works well).

Check in five to ten days. If most seeds have sprouted, the batch is viable. You can carefully plant the germinated seeds directly in the garden. If few sprout, buy fresh seed for a successful crop.