To help save money when buying vegetable seeds, check the viability of seed varieties and order larger packets of seeds that are long-lived.
Assess your remaining seeds from last season. If you liked a particular variety, continue to use the seed. Because seed can remain viable for years, if properly stored, it is often economical to buy larger packets at reduced prices.
Here is a general list of seed viability for some common vegetable crops:
Short-lived seeds (1 – 2 years)
* corn
* leeks
* onion
* parsnip
* spinach
Medium-lived seeds (5 years)
* squash
* pumpkin
* peas
* eggplant
* parsley
* beans
* carrots
* celery
Long-lived seeds (over 5 years)
* broccoli
* lettuce
* collards
* cabbage
* cauliflower
* brussel sprouts
* kale
* tomato
* radish
* cucumber
* melon
* peppers
* turnips
