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A seed is a crucial propagating unit of many plants, bearing the genetic information necessary for the plant to grow and reproduce. While all seeds perform this essential function, there can be significant variations in their size, shape, color, and weight.
In addition, each type of seed has specific needs in terms of temperature, light, and moisture to germinate and grow into a healthy and robust plant.
Characteristics of fruit and vegetable seeds
So, if you’re wondering whether all fruit and vegetable seeds are equal, the answer is no. Each type of seed has unique characteristics that make it best suited for a particular environment and growing conditions.
The size
Some seeds are tiny, such as those of orchids and other delicate flowers. Others, like watermelons, are pretty large. The size of the seed is not indicative of its viability or strength. Some tiny seeds, like those of impatiens and petunias, are notoriously tricky to germinate, while others, like sunflowers, have relatively large seeds that are easy to grow.
The shape
The shape of the seed can also vary considerably. Some, like beans and peas, are kidney-shaped, while others, like pumpkins, are more spherical. Again, the shape of a seed is not indicative of its quality – some perfectly round seeds, like those of tomatoes, can be tough to germinate.
The color
The seed color ranges from almost black to light tan or cream. The color is not usually an indication of the quality of the seed but can help identify the plant species.
The weight
Some seeds are very light, while others, like pumpkins and watermelons, are pretty heavy. The weight of a seed does not indicate its viability but can help determine how many seeds to sow per pot or row.
How to select your fruit and vegetable seed
Now that you know that all fruit and vegetable seeds are not equal, how do you select the right ones for your garden? Here are a few tips:
Read the seed packet carefully
The packet will usually have information on the best time to sow the seeds and the ideal growing conditions.
Choose seeds that will do well in your climate
If you live in a colder climate, choose seeds tolerant of frost or cold snaps, and for a hot climate, go for seeds that can withstand high temperatures.
Consider the space you have available
If you have limited space, choose compact varieties that don’t need a lot of room to grow.
Don’t be afraid to try something new
Seeds are inexpensive, so it’s worth trying a few new varieties each year. This way, you can find out what grows well in your garden and doesn’t.
Choosing the best seed company
With so many choices, deciding which company to buy from can be challenging. Here are a few things to consider when choosing seed companies:
Price
Of course, you’ll want to find seeds that fit your budget. But don’t ever sacrifice quality for the price of seeds; remember, you get what you pay for.
Variety
Choose a seed company that offers a wide range of fruit and vegetable seeds so you can find the perfect seeds for your garden.
Quality
Look for a company that sells high-quality seeds backed by a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring you’re getting what you expect.
Shipping
Consider a company that offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which can help save you money when buying a lot of seeds.
Customer service
If you have any gardening questions about the seeds or growing them, it’s helpful to have access to customer service. Choose a company with friendly and knowledgeable staff who are happy to help.
How to store your seeds
Once you’ve selected the perfect fruit and vegetable seeds for your garden, it’s essential to store them properly so they remain viable. Here are a few tips:
Keep them dry
You should store seeds in a cool, dry place. If they get too wet, they can rot; if they get too hot, they will lose their viability. An airtight container in the refrigerator is ideal.
Don’t forget to label them
Label your seeds with the plant’s name, the date you purchased them, and the expiration date, which will help you track which ones to use first.
Check on them occasionally
Every few months, open up your seed storage container and check on the condition of the seeds. If any are starting to look dried out, add a bit of moisture.
The bottom line
When it comes to seeds, there is a lot of variation in size, shape, color, and weight. However, these characteristics do not necessarily prove the seed’s quality. When choosing seeds, the most important thing to consider is whether they are appropriate for your growing conditions and climate.
