[hendreary]

I have a number of packs of seeds that are passed their sow by date. Is it worth using them or should I throw them away?

[HilaryG]

Depends what they are I think. Parsnips, carrots etc don't last very long but other things like beans, peas, corn should be ok. I assume they are still sealed. The germimation rate may be lower so if it was me I'd probably plant the whole lot!

[8doubles]

I have some gardeners delight toms that should have been used 08. I sowed 10 seeds and they were all up in 4 days.

Depends on the seed, sow some on damp kitchen roll and see what percentage grows.

[Y.E.A.H]

should I throw them away?

oh no, don't throw them away!!

[mumofstig]

In the growing help section there  is a chart that may help

link here

but as others say sprout a few on damp tissue and see if they will grow

[Trikidiki]

Just don't tell the seeds when they shouldn't grow

[Paul Plots]

I think it's always worth having a go... the germination rate will most likely be lower than newer seeds but you should get something if the packets have not got damp or been allowed to fry in the heat.

I very often use out-of-date seeds with reasonable success.... I just sow more and a little bit earlier to allow time for re-sowing if they fail.

Best of luck