Starting seeds that have passed their prime is like counting your chickens before they hatch. Besides the disappointment of a non-starter garden, it can put a real damper on your seed saving endeavors.
What to do?
If you are not inclined to test seeds and toss those that germinate successfully, then consider the method of pre-germination (aka pre-sprouting). Pre-germination is a "two-fer" process that allows you to easily test your seeds and get a jump start on your seed starting. It takes just a few extra steps and a little thought on timing, but the multiple rewards of pre-germination easily outweigh the additional time and effort.
By pre-germinating, you will:
Be sure to make notes of what seeds you pregerminated (and when!) and you'll be on your way!
The media clip below is a great guide on how to go forth and pre-germinate!
Grow it and seeds will come! Here are some very good resources to get you off to a great start.
What came first the plant or the seed? It doesn't really matter! What does matter is that you plan ahead and start your plants so that they have time to reach maturity (i.e. flower), can be pollinated and set seed. The following websites can help you get a successful plan in place.
For many plants (upwards of 90%), pollinators play a critically important role to the success of a plant crop, and thus the seeds they bear. From almonds to watermelons, and practically everything in between, plants simply will not produce an edible crop (or seed for that matter) without assistance from our six legged and winged friends (bats, bees, beetles, butterflies, flies, hummingbirds, moths, and, wasps).
Though the honey bee (Apis mellifera mellifera) gets alot of attention for their pollinating prowess, native pollinators are actually more efficient at pollination and are in as much danger of disappearing. The decline of native pollinators results from the loss of habitat, use of pesticides and insufficient food and sources at critical periods of the year, like early spring and fall.
Learn more about the importance of pollinators and how to sustain them so they can sustain us!
About the Xerces society (from their website)
The Xerces Society is a science-based conservation organization, working with diverse partners including scientists, land managers, educators, policymakers, farmers, and citizens. By using applied research, engaging in advocacy, providing educational resources, and addressing policy implications, we endeavor to make meaningful long-term conservation a reality.
Our core programs focus on habitat conservation and restoration, species conservation, protecting pollinators, contributing to watershed health, and reducing harm to invertebrates from pesticide use.
For more information on making your landscape a pollinator friendly one, visit the Xerces Society!