Introduction
It is often thought that storing seeds for long periods of time will decrease their viability, or ability to germinate and grow. However, this is not always the case. Seeds of some plants can remain viable for decades under the right conditions. How long a seed can remain viable depends on the plant species, storage conditions, and seed quality.
The science behind it
It is a common belief that seeds can remain viable for many years, but there is not much science to support this claim. The oldest seeds that have been germinated successfully are from lotus plants, which are thought to be between 1,300 and 1,500 years old. While there are anecdotal reports of other ancient seeds being germinated successfully, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. In general, the older a seed is, the less likely it is to germinate.
Chances of success
It’s unlikely that you’ll have much success planting 20-year-old seeds. The germination rate – the percentage of seeds that sprout – is lowered as seeds age. And, the older the seed, the lower the germination rate.
Seeds from annual flowers usually last only one year, while most perennial flower and tree seeds will remain viable for two to three years. But, there are exceptions. Some annuals produce seed that will remain viable for several years, and some perennials will self-sow – meaning they’ll drop seed that germinates and grows into a new plant next season.
If you have your heart set on planting very old seeds, your best bet is to do a germination test first.
Tips for growing 20-year-old seeds
When planting 20-year-old seeds, it is important to remember that these seeds may not be as viable as fresh seeds. To increase the chances of success, it is recommended to plant several seeds and thin out the seedlings once they have germinated. The seedlings should be kept moist and in a warm location until they are ready to be transplanted into the garden.
Conclusion
After 20 years, there is a very low chance that the seeds will be viable and able to grow. Seeds need specific conditions in order to germinate and grow into a plant, including moisture, oxygen, and the right temperature. If the seeds have been stored properly (usually in a cool, dry place), they may still have a small chance of germinating. However, it is more likely that the seed will not be viable and will not germinate.