Seed Planting FAQ

We want every seed you plant to thrive. Below you'll find answers to the most common questions from our customers — from choosing the right seeds to getting them in the ground and storing extras for next season.

🌱 Germination & Sprouting

What is a germination rate, and what should I expect?

Germination rate is the percentage of seeds expected to sprout under ideal conditions. Our seeds are tested and carry high germination rates, typically 85–95%+. You'll find the specific rate listed on each product page.

Why aren't my seeds sprouting?

The most common problems are:

  • Temperature: Most seeds need soil temperatures of 65–75°F to germinate. Cold soil slows or prevents sprouting.
  • Moisture: Soil should be consistently moist — not waterlogged and not bone-dry.
  • Depth: Planting too deep is a frequent mistake. See planting depth guidance below.
  • Seed age: Old or improperly stored seeds lose viability over time.

If seeds haven't sprouted within the expected window (listed on each product page), please reach out — our Seed Warranty has you covered.

How long does germination take? 

It varies by plant type. Fast germinators like Cosmos, Zinnias, Marigold sprout in 5–7 days. Slower varieties like Lavender, Columbine, Larkspur, lupine can take 14–21 days or more. Always check the seed packet or product page for the expected germination window.

🌿 Planting Instructions

How deep should I plant my seeds?

A general rule of thumb is to plant seeds at a depth of 2–3 times their diameter. Tiny seeds (like Aubrieta, Astilbe, Begonia) are often just pressed onto the soil surface. Larger seeds (like Sunflower, Morning Glory or Nasturtium) go approximately 1 inch deep. Specific depth instructions are printed on each seed packet and listed on the product page.

How far apart should I space my seeds?

Spacing depends on the mature size of the plant. Overcrowding leads to competition for nutrients and poor airflow. Product pages list the recommended spacing, and we always suggest thinning seedlings to the strongest plant once they've established.

How much light do my seeds need?

Light requirements vary by variety:

  • Full sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily (tomatoes, peppers, sunflowers, petunias, marigold, zinnia, portulaca.)
  • Part shade: 3–6 hours (begonias, astilbe, columbine, foxglove, some herbs)
  • Full shade: Less than 3 hours (ferns, mint, cilantro)

Each product page includes the light requirement for that specific variety.

Should I start seeds indoors or sow them directly outside?

It depends on the plant and your climate:

1. Starting seed indoors

Flowers to start 6–10 weeks before your last frost date:

Zinnias: Fast-growing annuals that add bright color to summer beds.
Cosmos: Tall, daisy-like blooms that love the sun.
Marigolds: Easy-to-grow annuals that deter certain garden pests.
Snapdragons: Cool-weather lovers that provide vertical spikes of color.
Salvia: Vibrant spikes that attract pollinators.
Ageratum: Fluffy, long-lasting blue or purple flower clusters.

2. Direct sow outdoors 

Cool-Weather Flowers (Sow in Early Spring or Late Fall)

These seeds tolerate chilly temperatures and light frost:
Bachelor’s Buttons: Scatter in early spring; they sprout fast in cool soil.
Calendula: Tough plants that handle cool weather and bloom brightly.
Poppies: Toss seeds on top of the soil in early spring or late winter.

Warm-Weather Flowers (Sow After Last Frost)

Wait until all danger of frost passes and the soil warms up:
Zinnias: Push seeds a quarter-inch deep in a sunny spot.
Cosmos: Plant in full sun; they grow fast and tolerate poor soil.
Sunflowers: Press seeds half an inch into the dirt where they get plenty of sun.
Nasturtiums: Direct-sow these large seeds in a sunny area; they do poorly if transplanted.
Sweet Alyssum: Press lightly onto the soil surface because the seeds need light to germinate. 

Product pages specify our recommended sowing method for each variety.

📅 Seasonal Timing & Regional Planting

When should I plant my seeds?

Timing depends on your USDA Hardiness Zone and whether you're growing warm-season or cool-season crops:

  • Cool-season crops (lettuce, kale, spinach, peas): Plant in early spring or fall, 4–6 weeks before your last/first frost.
  • Warm-season crops (tomatoes, basil, squash, beans): Plant after your last frost date when soil has warmed.

Not sure of your zone? Visit the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and enter your zip code.

Can I grow flower seeds year-round indoors?

Many flowers, herbs, microgreens, and leafy greens can be grown indoors year-round with a sunny south-facing window or a grow light. We recommend at least 14–16 hours of artificial light per day for most edible plants grown indoors in low-light seasons.

I'm in a warm climate — do the planting seasons change?

Yes! Gardeners in USDA Zones 9–11 (Southern California, Florida, Gulf Coast) often plant warm-season crops in late winter and cool-season crops in fall through early spring, essentially the reverse of northern growers. Check your local cooperative extension service for region-specific planting calendars.

📦 Seed Storage & Shelf Life

How should I store unused seeds?

Proper storage dramatically extends seed viability. Keep unused seeds:

  • In a cool, dark, and dry location (a sealed container in the refrigerator is ideal)
  • Away from humidity — moisture is the enemy of seed viability
  • In labeled envelopes or airtight containers with silica gel packets to absorb moisture

How long do seeds stay viable?

Shelf life varies by type. Here are general guidelines.

1–2 Years Flower Seeds Viability:

Delphinium, Asters, Delphinium, Phlox, Larkspur

3–4 Years Popular Flower Seeds Viability: 

Petunias: Reliably maintain strong germination rates for 3 to 4 years.
Cosmos: Hardy annual seeds that consistently last 3 to 5 years.
Marigolds (Certain Varieties): Some types, like specific heirloom French or African strains, can push past 5 years, though standard ratings average closer to 2-3 years. 
Calendula: High-vigor seeds known to perform well for 3 to 6 years.
Sunflowers: Large, oil-rich seeds that preserve viability for 3 to 5 years.
Dianthus: Pinks and carnation varieties remain strong for up to 4 or 5 years.
Poppies: Many classic and perennial poppy varieties preserve easily for 4 years.
Zinnias: Typically remain viable for up to 5 years.

5–6 Years Flower Seeds Viability: 

Nasturtiums: Often stay viable for 5 to 7 years.
Calendula (Pot Marigold): Frequently remains viable for 6 or more years.
Sunflowers: Can last 5 to 7 years when kept dry and cool.

Seeds stored correctly often remain viable beyond these estimates. Do a quick germination test: place 10 seeds on a damp paper towel, seal in a bag, and check after the expected germination window. If fewer than 5 sprout, it's time for fresh seeds.

Do seeds expire?

Seeds don't have a hard expiration date, but viability gradually decreases over time. Our seeds are packed for the current season with high germination rates. For best results, use seeds within their recommended shelf life window and store them properly between uses.

🚚 Shipping & Seed Handling

Are seeds safe to ship? Will the heat or cold damage them?

Seeds are remarkably resilient in transit. Unlike live plants, seeds can tolerate a wide range of temperatures during shipping without damage. We package our seeds carefully to protect them from moisture. In extreme heat conditions, we recommend opening your package promptly and storing seeds in a cool location.

How are my seeds packaged?

Seeds are packaged in moisture-resistant seed packets designed to keep them fresh from our facility to your garden. Each packet is clearly labeled with the variety name, planting instructions, germination rate, and seed count.

How long does shipping take?

Please see our Shipping Policy for full details on processing times, shipping speeds, and delivery estimates.

🛡️ Seed Warranty & Guarantee

What is your Seed Warranty?

We stand behind every seed we sell. If your seeds fail to germinate under proper growing conditions, we want to make it right. Please visit our Seed Warranty page for the full details of our guarantee and how to submit a claim.

What if I'm not satisfied with my order?

Your satisfaction is our priority. If something isn't right with your order, please review our Refund & Return Policy or contact us directly and we'll do our best to help.

How do I contact you with a question not answered here?

We love hearing from fellow gardeners! Reach out through our store's contact page and our team will get back to you as quickly as possible.

Happy growing! 🌻 Our seeds carry 4.85–5.0 star ratings from thousands of customers — and we're committed to helping you achieve the same results in your garden.