How long are Hardy HibIscus seeds viable?

Question

I have several different types of hardy hibiscus seeds that I received when I was a member of another garden club. But after I received them, I became chronically ill with kidney and back/legs problems. My godson was my helper but he grew up, got a job and I rarely see him. So I had no one to plant the seeds for me. Well, I’m beginning to feel better and want to plant the seeds if it’s not a waste of time. Is there a way to tell if they are still viable? The seeds are approaching 10 years old if not already there. Thank you so much for any advice you can give me about the seeds.

Answer 1

There is no good way to tell, visually, if a seed is viable. There is an easy way to test them, though. Place a few in a very slightly damp paper towel and place them in a dark drawer in a sealed ziplock bag. Check them once per day until you see something happening. If 2 weeks pass and you don't see anything, then you can throw them out. They will not be viable if they haven't started by then.