[Goosegirl]

I know - how long is a piece of string, but if I bought some sweet-pea seeds that had the colour and delicious scent I want, how long are they viable for, given that they would be stored in a plastic container in a cool place?

[mumofstig]

My seeds seem to be viable for 2 years, after that there was little germination.

[JayG]

Had to re-buy and re-sow my sweet peas this year as none of the year-old seed came up (no real hardship apart from the waste of time - only 25p per packet from Lidl and very fragrant, if not the most spectacular colour range.)

[sunshineband]

Had to re-buy and re-sow my sweet peas this year as none of the year-old seed came up (no real hardship apart from the waste of time - only 25p per packet from Lidl and very fragrant, if not the most spectacular colour range.)

I found that last year's seed had very erratic germination, but some that came free with a magazine a couple of months ago came up a treat.

[Goosegirl]

Um - last year seemed to have been problematic for their germination from new seed - wonder why? Same variety this year are all growing well. Anyway, next year I will have a look at single varieties and choose the colours I want  that have the most scent.

[muckyboots]

Hi ,I had about 60 percent success with last years seed it seems there is an element of pot luck although mine were in a tray

[madcat]

My saved seed from last years flowers hasn't been great this year.  I think I got carried away with the good weather in April then had to leave them in OH's tender but not very observant care for 10 days followed by the off weather in May.  Either that or the vitality in the strain has weakened. But they are sad little things when they have grown ....