From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Ironton, ohio

I'm struggling with germination this year only 50% on my first batch. I treat them basically as I do pumpkins which I have great success with. Do tomatoes prefer a damper soil or more/less heat? What's the shelf life for seeds? Hate to waste good seeds. All opinions welcome.

4/26/2026 7:20:01 PM

Central NY

More heat

4/26/2026 7:29:11 PM

Grittyville, WA

They should sprout at 70-80 like a pumpkin. They might take a day or two longer. They don't do well if planted too deep, but they'll get helmet heads if planted too shallow. About 1/4" deep is about right I think.

4/26/2026 7:45:22 PM

Warwood

I usually end up at about 80F then keep them under light at 75-80F, Dan S. has a perfect video for you: "Seed Starting Masterclass! Common Mistakes Explained By World Record Gardener! Tutorial" https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=hjbBlMfeye 4&t=1119s Porkchop can plant seeds well and grow them well too.

5/1/2026 5:58:10 PM

Grittyville, WA

Seed life isnt usually an issue. In my experience they last 5 years easily. Up to about 15. Similar to pumpkins. But, if stored in a hot or slightly damp location (seeds not fully dry when packed) then the seed life could be a lot shorter.

[Last edit: 05/01/26 6:48:16 PM]

5/1/2026 6:46:23 PM