How to Read a Seed Packet

The Seed Packet: A User Manual

A seed packet contains a remarkable amount of information in a very small space. Understanding how to read it correctly means the difference between a successful crop and a failed one. Here is what every element means and why it matters.

Variety Name

The variety name tells you which specific cultivar of the plant you are growing. This matters more than many gardeners realise. "Tomato" tells you almost nothing useful — "Tommy Toe Cherry Tomato" tells you it is a cherry type, Australian heirloom variety, with a specific flavour profile and growth habit. Always note the variety name so you can repeat successes and avoid failures.

F1 Hybrid vs Open-Pollinated

F1 on a packet means the seed is a first-generation hybrid cross between two parent varieties. F1 varieties are often more productive and uniform but seeds saved from them will not grow true to type. Open-pollinated varieties (no F1 designation) can be saved for seed and will reproduce reliably. Neither is inherently superior — they are just different tools for different purposes.

Sowing Depth

A general rule: sow seeds at a depth equal to twice their diameter. The packet will specify the exact depth. Fine seeds like lettuce, carrot, and basil are sown on the surface or very shallowly (2–3mm). Larger seeds like beans, peas, and corn are sown 2–3cm deep. Getting depth wrong — particularly sowing too deep — is one of the most common causes of germination failure.

Days to Germination

The range of days until you should expect to see seedlings emerge. This assumes the correct soil temperature, which is why the range can be wide (7–21 days for many vegetables). If nothing has germinated by the end of the stated range in good conditions, the seeds may be old and have lost viability, or conditions may be too cold or too wet.

Days to Maturity

The number of days from transplanting (for seedlings) or from germination (for direct-sown crops) until harvest. This is an average and will vary with your climate, soil fertility, and watering regime. Use it to plan your season — work backwards from your first expected frost or the end of the season to determine whether you have time for a crop.

Spacing

Two spacing measurements are usually given: between plants in a row, and between rows. In intensive garden beds where you approach from all sides, you can often reduce these spacings by 25–30% and still achieve excellent results — the denser planting creates a living mulch that shades out weeds.

Use-By Date

Seed packets carry a use-by or pack date. Most vegetable seeds remain viable for 2–5 years if stored correctly (cool, dark, dry). Old seeds have reduced germination rates — compensate by sowing more densely and thinning later. Always check packet dates before purchasing to avoid old stock.