How Long Do Marigold Seeds Last? (Answered)

You might have a packet of marigold seeds stored somewhere. However, it has been a while since and you are unsure if they are still healthy. Don’t worry, this has happened to a lot of gardeners. 

So, how long do marigold seeds last?  

Marigold seeds, if stored properly, can last up to 5 years. However, in general, they last up to 3 years. To properly store the seeds use an envelope or in their original seed packet. After that, store that in an airtight bag or jar. Finally, keep the bag or jar in the refrigerator between 32 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do you feel like you’re still confused? Well, this can happen. That’s why we have broken down all the info in simple words. 

So, just spare your 5 minutes and give our piece a read. 

How Long Does Marigold Seeds Last?

Marigold seeds can last for up to 3 years. However, you need to store them properly. 

You can easily keep marigold seeds in their original packet or envelope for up to a year. You can only do this if you get them from a garden center. 

We have listed the details of some high-quality seed manufacturers for your convenience.

It’s likely that the seeds you acquire will be hybrids. The marigolds you produce from them will have the same appearance as the flowers on the seed packet. 

To make sure your marigold seeds have a longer life, you should store them properly. If your seed gets dried out it won’t be viable.  

So, let’s find out how you can store your marigold seeds properly. 

How to Tell If My Marigold Seeds Are Good? 

You can store your seeds perfectly but there’s always a chance that they might go bad. We wouldn’t want you to spend energy attempting to grow stale seeds.

That’s why we have a simple technique that’ll tell you if the seeds are good or not. 

Let’s see how you can check your marigold seeds. 

• Put 10 seeds on half of a white soft cloth that is wet but not soggy. Wrap the other half over the seeds after that.
• Place the cloth in an open plastic bag in a heated location. The heat should be about 75 degrees. 
• Make sure the cloth stays moist on a daily basis. You must keep an eye on it to ensure that it does not dry out.
• Once germination has halted, count how many seeds have grown. If five out of 10 seeds germinate, the germination rate is 50%.
• You now have an approximate idea about how many seeds will germinate. So if you want 10 plants, you’ll need to sow at least 20 seeds.
• If you see seeds are not sprouting, you’ll know the seeds have gone bad. 

By the way, wondering where to get plastic bags from? We have some suggestions for proper plastic bags_

Feel free to use them if you don’t have any to use for this. 

How to Store Marigold Seeds Properly?

As we mentioned before, if you want your seeds to last longer, store them properly. To do this you’ll need to follow our instructions to the letter. So let’s get started. 

Step 1: Dry Your Marigold Seeds   

The seeds must be dried before they may be planted the next year. 

To begin, lay a sheet on the table. Then, spread the seeds equally on the fabric.  The seeds will be laid out on that cloth to dry.  This is why you should choose your drying location accordingly.

Once you’ve set up everything, pull the seeds free by breaking apart the marigold heads. Break apart any clusters of seeds as you scatter them across your drying area.

Now just leave them alone! Seeds can be picked up and kept once they have dried completely. 

Check them after a week. Take a seed and try to break it in half. If it has hardened entirely, it should break. If it folds, give it extra time to dry.

Step 2: Store Your Seeds

Dried seeds should be stored in, paper envelopes, or glass jars away from direct sunlight and heat. 

We have recommended some good-quality storing options for your seeds. 

If you don’t have proper storage, use these. 

You can keep your seeds indoors. However, you need to make sure it doesn’t have a lot of humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Wet seeds have the potential to expire, mold, or sprout. That is why it is important to keep them dry.

Now, you know how to store your seeds and how to check if they’re good or not. However, these things can be a bit tricky. So, if you’re a beginner, make sure you learn some proper gardening tips beforehand. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How to water marigold plants?

Answer: First, you need to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. After that, water your plants and repeat the process every day. In hot weather, you should water more. Marigolds should not be watered from above. You should water the plant from the roots. 

Question: Is it necessary to soak seeds before sowing them?

Answer: Generally seeds should be soaked for no more than 12 to 24 hours and no more than 48 hours.. After soaking your seeds, plant them according to the instructions.

Question: What is the shelf life of flower seeds in packets?

Answer: The longevity of your seeds is determined by how well you’ve preserved them. Most perennial flowers will last 5 years. However, most annual flower seeds will last 3 years.

Conclusion 

How long do marigold seeds last? Now you know the answer to this question. Remember that not every seed will last the same amount of time. Some seeds are just more potent than others. 

Good luck with your gardening.