The life of seeds depends upon (1) the kind of vegetables, (2) conditions under which they were grown, (3) thoroughness of curing and (4) storage conditions. In some years seeds lose their vitality more rapidly than in others. The figures in the following table relative to the longevity of vegetable seeds are conservative, for it is not best to place too much reliance upon tables of this character; the only certain means of determining the vitality of seeds is to make germination tests.

The following table shows maximum ages of properly cured and stored vegetable seeds when they will be likely to germinate satisfactorily:

Years Years.

Artichoke....................... 2 Lettuce......................... 4

Asparagus....................... 2 Muskmelon...................... 5

Bean........................... 3 Okra........................... 4

Beet........................... 4 Onion.......................... 1

Cabbage......................... 3 Parsley.......................... 1

Carrot.......................... 1 Parsnip......................... 1

Cauliflower...................... 4 Pea............................. 3

Celery.......................... 2 Pepper.......................... 3

Cucumber....................... 5 Radish.......................... 2

Eggplant........................ 5 Salsify.......................... 2

Endive.......................... 2 Squash......................... 3

Kale............................ 2 Tomato......................... 5

Kohlrabi........................ 3 Turnip...................... 4

Leek........................... 3 Watermelon..................... 5