Growers Wanted for Seed Viability Testing

Every year we collect more seeds (especially from species having a good harvest that year) than we have the capacity to grow or sell. 

We generally do not like to sell seeds that are older than a couple of years, on the assumption that they will be less viable than those of the current year (although of course even the viability of these seeds cannot be guaranteed). However, the seeds of many species are viable for many years – there is just no easy way to know how long that range of viability is. 

It would increase ENPS’ efficiency and credentials considerably if we knew more about long-term viability because we would then have to discard fewer seeds and could have more confidence in selling or using older seed.

Consequently, we are looking for volunteers who are willing to grow out some of these – let’s call them ‘superannuated’ – seeds in order to get a better handle on their viability.

What’s entailed?

The volunteer grower would accept small quantities of two to three species – more if they wished – from different years. They would label them with plant name, location and date of collection (information provided by ENPS), and sow them in the fall in large garden pots filled with clean garden soil or potting soil. It might be necessary to cover them with mesh, or otherwise protect them from animal predation. In the spring it would be important to ensure the pots do not dry out and to identify and remove weeds if possible.

The grower would keep a record, including sowing date and germination, or lack of it – negative results are just as important as positive ones! - and subsequent survival to potting up or transplant stage.

It may be necessary to keep the pots for up to three years, so appropriate garden space would be desirable for this experiment. However, since the seeding is in pots, interested balcony owners could also take part.  All records would be submitted to ENPS. 

What’s in it for the volunteer?

Apart from the pleasure of seeing things grow when they do, there is some satisfaction to be gained from taking part in a citizen science project that contributes to scientific knowledge and potentially reduces seed wastage. The grower can keep any plants they grow or donate them back to ENPS if they wish, and could be eligible for other concessions.

What’s in it for ENPS?

ENPS can make more efficient use of our seed and educational resources, and have more confidence in the product quality of our sales. 

To take part or ask questions, please send an email to: volunteer@enps.ca  

Thank you.