When you buy seeds (especially flowers) generally how long can they last unplanted before they become "duds"

It's too late for me to do any planting in my garden because everything is already blooming and new plants wouldn't ever catch up. But I've gotten ahold of new seeds.

When you buy seeds (especially flowers) generally how long can they last unplanted before they become "duds"
Keep seeds in a dark, cool place. It's based more upon proper storage than time. Seeds found in Egyptian tombs sprouted. Viable for 2,000 years. So there ya go.
Reply:I keep mine in jars with lids. Away from heat.





I also have some in envelopes in a dark cool small filing cabinet.





You can check to see if they are still good by putting a few on a wet paper towel, fold it, and then put it into a baggy. Put in a warm spot such as on top of your fridge, but not in the sun. Open it in a week to ten days to see if they have sprouted.
Reply:I package mine in paper coin envelopes and store them in an airtight box on the main floor of my house. Works for me - some of the more obscure varieties may have to be cold stored - some may not store well at all, and need to be planted right away - but MOST seeds are fine if kept relatively cool and dry.
Reply:Packaged seeds are packaged fresh yearly by the manufacturers. So to get optimum performance from the seeds they should be used within the year.