How to read a seed packet

Information presented on seed packets will differ from one vendor to another. Nonetheless, most vendors will provide enough information to help ensure a successful crop for that particular plant. For me, the most important information included is the common and varietal name, planting directions, and days to maturity. 

An explanation of information you may find on a seed packet is described below.

Seed Packet

Term	Description and use
Picture	A picture is found on the front of most seed packets. It may be a drawing or a photo but nonetheless, it is supposed to be representative of what to expect when harvesting the fruit, vegetable, or flower.
Name	The common name is usually the first name that appears on the front of the seed packet to describe its contents. It will be the name that is most familiar to the average person. The varietal name is typically used for marketing purposes to distinguish between different varieties of the same plant. These names are often named and trademarked by the originator of a new variety. The Latin name is the scientific or botanical name for a plant. The Latin name is derived from a binomial nomenclature system that includes the genus and species name. This naming convention is a formal and universally accepted way to name a plant and is usually written in italicized script. Below is an example of how the name may appear on the label: Common name = Onion Varietal name = Ruby Ring Latin name = Allium cepa
Type	Heirloom seeds are those that have not been genetically modified, but by nature, have been naturally selected to grow in a particular area. Heirloom plants are open-pollinated and the seeds can be saved and used year-to-year. Hybrid or F1 indicates that the seeds have been bred artificially using genetics and selective breeding for specific plant traits. Hybrid plants usually produce larger yields and are more disease resistant and uniform in shape than heirlooms. However, these seeds cannot be saved from year-to-year as they may not be “true” to the variety.
Quantity	Either the weight or number of the seeds contained in the packet. Use this information to compare pricing between package size and brands.
Description	Narrative used to provide background information on the plants growth habitat, storage characteristics, and any known pests and diseases that may result in damage to the plant. The description may also indicate if a trellis is needed or whether a plant will thrive in a container. This information is useful when selecting seed varieties.
Planting Directions	Critical information used by the grower on how to start the seeds and when to transplant seedlings.
Germination Rate	Indicates how many seeds out of 100 are likely to germinate if planted under proper conditions. This value is expressed in percent with the date that the germination rate was checked. Often, this is a good indication on how fresh the seeds are at a given point in time. Germination rate decreases with age.
Days to Emerge	Refers to how long it will take before you see leaves emerging through the soil. The number of days is an approximation based on optimal growth conditions such as temperature, moisture, and light.
Days to Maturity	Estimate of when a given crop will be ready to harvest. Use this information to select varieties that are best suited for your growing season (time between frosts). Depending on the vegetable, some seed packets may distinguish between days to maturity from the date sown or from the date transplanted outdoors. Make sure to account for this time difference when planting your seeds.
Lot #	Information used by the vendor to track the seeds harvested in a particular field, on a specific date, or by a specific person or method. It is not the most useful information on the seed packet, unless you have a problem with your seeds and need to contact the vendor.
Sell by Date	In the United States, vendors are required to guarantee a particular germination rate if sold (and used) by a specified date. However, most seeds can last years if properly stored.