BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Select Seeds for the Garden

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Not all seeds are created equal, even though they may look the same. Whether deciding on vegetable or flower seeds, selecting the right seed is not an easy choice. Knowing what makes seeds different is important when selecting seeds for your next garden project.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Look at the USDA plant hardiness zone map to determine when the first frost date and the last frost date of the season are for your area. These maps are printed on the back of each seed packet and are included in most seed catalogs to ensure that customers select the right seed. Only purchase seeds that are rated for your hardiness zone.

Step2

Select seeds that are easy to grow like lettuce or swiss chard if you're a novice gardener.

Step3

Check the sunlight requirements on the seed packet or catalog description. If the chosen garden area does not receive the required amount of sunlight, the seeds will not grow successfully. Sunlight conditions are either full sun, partial sun or shade.

Step4

Look at the "packed for" date on the bottom of the seed package when selecting seeds at the store. The date should say the current year; if not, buy extra packets because old seeds may not be viable. That is why the old seeds are sold at bargain prices.

Step5

Buy seeds in bulk at tractor supply or farm stores. Corn, beans and wheat are commonly sold in large quantities at these places in the latest hybrid species.

Step6

Choose seeds of a specimen based on desired flavor, color, germination rate or specialty status. Germination rate means the percentage of seeds expected to grow. Specialty seeds can be heirloom (passed down through the generations) or organic (produced under organic conditions).

Step7

Select hybrid seeds based on their bred characteristics such as blight or drought resistance or a ripeness variation.

Step8

Determine if the seed is an annual, perennial or biennial. Annuals need to be replanted every year. Perennials are planted in the garden and will return every year with limited maintenance. Biennials are perennials that return every 2 years.

Tips & Warnings

Select seeds that look healthy and are not discolored. They also shouldn't smell like mold or mildew.
Micro-climates exist in every hardiness zone. Pay attention to local weather patterns and use the hardiness zone map as a guide.