What does the "sell by date" indicate regarding seeds?

The "sell by date" for seeds is crucial as it serves as a guideline for retailers and consumers regarding when seeds should be sold to ensure the best germination potential. This date reflects the timeframe in which the seeds are expected to be viable for planting, indicating that they should be purchased and planted by that time for optimal results.

Understanding this helps consumers make informed decisions about their seed purchases. It is important to note that the sell by date does not dictate how long seeds can be stored once bought, nor does it indicate when the seeds were harvested or the best time for planting. Instead, it focuses solely on the retail aspect, ensuring that seeds are sold while they still have a high probability of germination and vitality when planted. This emphasizes the importance of purchasing seeds close to this date to achieve the best gardening outcomes.