Rensselaer Union, Volume 1, Number 23, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 March 1869 — The Vitality of Seeds. [ARTICLE]

The Vitality of Seeds.

It is of importance to know how long seeds retain their germinating powers, to prevent the sowing of those of impaired vitality, as well as to avoid throwing away those which, though several years old, are still good. The test with water is not reliable, as good seed will frequently float, and that which is bad will often sink. The only sure test is to plant a counted number of seeds in a pot or box of earth and keep it tin a warm room. If three- ; fourths germinate, the seed ! may be considered of an aver* i age good quality. | (rood tor one year-—Leeks, i Onions. Parsneps. Good for two years—Beaus, Corrot, Egg-Plant, Okra, Peas, Peppers? Rhubarb, Sage, Salsify, Thyme. Good for three years- —Asparagus, Endive, Lettuce, Parsley, Radish, Spinach, Good for four years —Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, Turnip. Good for five to ten years— Beet, Cucumber, Melon, Pumpkin, Squash, Tomato.