Ever wondered about seed viability? We have.  It seems that seed packets always contain more seeds than we can use in any given year. And it is surely against the rules to throw out unused seeds, isn't it?  We have a stash of leftover seeds that just keeps getting bigger.  How about a test?

We got anxious to get things started sometime last week, and of course, the tin of leftover seeds came out first.  Reyn's notes show that he started seeds in six-packs this year on February 11th.

Here is a list of what  he planted, along with the years for which they were packaged.
   Tyee Spinach, Lily Miller, 2009
   Leeks, Giant Musselburg, Lily Miller, 2009

   Pepper Grass, Territorial Seeds, 2008
   Swiss Chard, Rhubarb Red, Lily Miller, 2009
   Walla Walla Onions, 2008
   Valmaine Lettuce, Territorial Seeds, 2009
   Buttercrunch Lettuce, Territorial, 2007
   New Redfire Lettuce, Territorial, 2007

The seeds were planted in potting soil and kept indoors for warmth.  Once sprouted they are moved out during warm days, but are brought in again at night. We have been totally surprised and delighted that each and every variety has now produced tiny little seedlings.

The 2008 pepper grass was showing it's happy faces in just 4 days.  The spinach was next, followed by chard, then lettuce and, finally the leeks and onions.  It remains to be seen how well they will do, but we are pleased with the start.

We've had a beautiful, unseasonably warm day here today.  I spent a good part of the day surveying the yard, pulling weeds and, cleaning up perenials and shrubs that were damaged by our earlier cold weather. It looks like we have a few more early Spring days ahead of us.  Maybe I'll get a head start on weed control this year.  I'll let keep you posted.