[mumofstig]

Where did you get your seeds from?...........a different supplier (although I did have the same problem from 2 suppliers) may have 'clean' seed.
Fingers crossed yours are OK and I may go back to Incredible next year

[monkeywobbler]

I think they were Mr Fothergills from Homebase in Stamford. I may not need my packet of Swift next year. If these do well I might stick with them. I'll let you know how they turn out!

[Salmo]

Swift are a supersweet variety and these have a reputation for poor germination of old seed.  So chit on kitchen paper next year to check on germination. If you look at supersweet seed they are shrivelled up with little grain.

[JayG]

Swift are a supersweet variety and these have a reputation for poor germination of old seed.  So chit on kitchen paper next year to check on germination. If you look at supersweet seed they are shrivelled up with little grain.

Totally agree - 50% germination after 1 year if you're lucky (mind you, this year "fresh" seed didn't do much better than that for me either, although in the past I've usually got close to 100% germination with this variety!) 

[monkeywobbler]

I'm not going to bother with Swift then. I've read so many threads with people saying the germination is rubbish. I'm not going to faff about with germinating stuff on paper - I haven't got any room in my house for it.
That's why I'm so impressed with Incredible - 1 in a pot with some compost and no problems. If they do well I'll get more next year, otherwise I have seen some other cultivars hanging about in shops.

[Salmo]

Swift is excellent germination. I had 34 plants from 36 seeds. It is just that if they, and other supersweet varieties, are kept over to the next year the germination can drop.

[JayG]

Swift is excellent germination. I had 34 plants from 36 seeds. It is just that if they, and other supersweet varieties, are kept over to the next year the germination can drop.

I can only speculate as to whether my "fresh" Swift seed bought this year was actually as described on the packet! 

[monkeywobbler]

I'll stick with what's worked for me, I think   :happy: