Return to the Herbs Forum
| Post a Follow-Up
Basil seed is viable for years!
| | |
Posted by kolanda West Aust (My Page) on Sun, Oct 26, 03 at 23:23
I had a packet of basil seed (kindly given to me by another GardenWeb member) that was at least 3 years old. Thinking it may be less viable after such a long time I sprinkled the lot in my herb planter (an old bathtub with various herbs near the back door). I must have 50 or more basil plants coming up, far more than I expected after such a long time in storage. Just goes to show you how determined plants are to continue the species.
I am very pleased with the results, the other herbs may be a little less pleased, I may have to try transplanting some of the basil out of there before it smothers everything else. |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Basil seed is viable for years!
| | |
- Posted by sooze z10 NSW Aust (My Page) on
Thu, Oct 30, 03 at 5:38
| Nice to know Kolanda, I suspect some seeds properly stored last for ages although we think they are not viable. Just goes to show - never say die, just try - maybe its the seed companies who instil the thoughts of out-of date. |
RE: Basil seed is viable for years!
| | |
| Interesting bit of trivia for you. Basil seed are used in desserts in India and elsewhere in Asia. They are virtually tasteless, but when you add water they develop the most amazing jelly coating, very much like frogs eggs. The jelly coated seeds are used for the unique texture they add to the dish! I bought some from an Indian spice merchant in Melbourne but I'm a little squeemish about eating them! Watercress does the same thing. It's an adaptation to grab onto water when it's available and get the seed germinating. |
RE: Basil seed is viable for years!
| | |
Well Jamus that is interesting, gross sounding but interesting! I can't even stomach sago so I don't think jelly oozing basil or watercress seed is going to become part of my diet. Urk....
The basil is doing well by the way. I left it all there and will just eat it as it gets too big. |
|
|
|
|
