[teflon]

Whats the general consensus on using old seeds?I've got a few packets of seeds left from last year(and some even older).One  bloke i've spoken to tells me the only "packet"seeds he uses are what are given to him because they're" too old to use",& he swears by them.

[gregmcalister]

I've used seeds that are a few years old and generally they're fine although there comes a point when they become less viable. I noticed the germination rates for my Little Gem lettuce were very poor last year but the packet was about 5 or 6 years old.  Similarly I planted the remainder of a packet of onion seeds last month and they've not been great but the pack must be around 4 or 5 years old.  It all depends on the variety though - parsnips don't keep particularly well - and the storage conditions will have an effect.

[Ice]

You might get a slightly lower germination rate but I always have old seeds from the previous year.

[celjaci]

As mentioned a lot depends on how the seeds are stored. If left on a greenhouse shelf life will be very short.
Best way to store seeds for next year is to cram the packets into an old coffee jar ( or plastic box ) and keep in the fridge - air tight, cool and dark

[Celery]

As long as it is kept in a air tight container,in a cool room it will be OK.
                                                                                                            celery

[Rampant_Weasel]

nothing to lose by planting them, u can always buy some more if they dont come.

[azubah]

Sometimes I do a little test by sprinkling a few seeds on wet paper in a coleslaw pot and keeping them warm and damp and waiting to see how many come up.