Who should I contact if I have growing questions, disease or insect identification needs, or other educational requirements?
We strongly encourage you to reach out to Cooperative Extension in your state. Cooperative Extension is associated with your state's Land Grant University and offers expert advice on gardening, pest control, and plant health.
What are the differences between treated, untreated, organic, and other types of seed?
Raw – Seed in its natural form, cleaned and not treated using any chemical, biological, or physical method.
Treated – Seed has been treated to protect it from seed- or soil-borne pathogens, improving performance. Treatment may use hot water, chemical, or biological methods applied under controlled conditions at the manufacturer's recommended rate.
Untreated – Seed is clean and has not been treated using any chemical, biological, or physical method. However, the seed crop was not grown under Certified Organic conditions. Untreated seed may be allowed in Certified Organic production if a comparable organic variety is not available (check with your certifying agency).
Organic – Seed is clean, untreated, and grown under Certified Organic conditions. Allowed for use in Certified Organic production.
Filmcoat – Seed has been coated with an inert, food-grade material for easier handling and flowability. For treated seed, filmcoat helps the treatment adhere. (Not OMRI Listed.)
Pelleted – Seed has been coated with an inert material to increase seed size for easier planting. (Pellet ingredients for untreated seed are not approved for organic use; organic pelleted seed uses NOP-approved ingredients.)
Multi-Pelleted – The pellet contains more than one seed. One pellet will produce multiple plants.
Primed – Seed has been primed for easier and more uniform germination through physical or chemical processes. Priming processes vary by seed type.
Detailed – Fibrous "tails" have been removed from seeds for easier handling and flowability, achieved through physical or chemical processes.
How many seeds are in a pound for seeds sold by weight?
This varies by variety. Please refer to the individual product page for weight-to-seed-count conversion.
How many seeds does it take to plant an acre?
You can calculate your population per acre using this formula:
6,272,640 (square inches per acre) ÷ row spacing (inches) ÷ in-row spacing (inches) = seeds per acre.
Example: 6,272,640 ÷ 36 ÷ 9 =19,360 seeds per acre.
Can I store seeds, and how should I store them?
Yes, seeds can be stored for multiple years if kept properly. Longevity depends on seed type:
Large seeds (corn, beans, peas): about 3 years
Smaller seeds: may last longer
Storage tips:
Place seeds in a plastic or metal container with a silica gel pack to absorb moisture.
Store in a cool, dry place.
Do not store in a refrigerator– the high moisture environment can damage seeds.
Can I harvest and save seeds from my grown plants?
Yes, you can, but please be aware that saved seeds may produce plants with different characteristics than the original – such as plant habit, vigor, yield, uniformity, bloom color, fruit quality, or appearance. If you want consistent, high-quality results, we recommend purchasing fresh seed each season. Our suppliers follow strict quality controls to ensure high germination rates, purity, and disease-free seed.
My seed package was left outside in freezing temperatures. Will my seed be damaged?
As long as the seeds did not get wet, freezing temperatures will not harm them.
Can I start my seeds in a window?
While some gardeners have had success, we do not recommend this method. Window-sill seedlings often stretch and grow unevenly due to inconsistent light and temperature. For best results, use a light stand with even lighting directly above the seedling tray. For soil warmth, consider using heat mats or cables to promote even germination.
What does "light (L)" or "dark (D)" mean on the seed packet?
Light (L) – Seeds need light to germinate. You may cover them very lightly with vermiculite to retain moisture, but ensure enough light reaches the seeds.
Dark (D) – Seeds germinate best in little to no light. Cover trays with coarse vermiculite or seed-starting mix to exclude light and retain moisture.
What does the "days to maturity" number mean? (e.g., 115 Days)
For direct-seeded crops (vine crops, sweet corn, peas, beans): maturity is counted from the day seeds are planted in the garden.
For transplanted crops (tomatoes, peppers, eggplant): maturity is counted from the day seedlings are transplanted into the garden.
Note: These days are calculated based on growing conditions in NY. The farther south you are, the quicker varieties may mature due to more heat units.
Why do some varieties become backordered or out of stock?
Seed production depends on nature. Sometimes crop yields are lower than expected, or demand exceeds supply – especially for varieties that address specific diseases or climate conditions. We place multiple orders throughout the year to ensure availability. Our suggestion: order as early as possible after receiving our catalog to secure your preferred varieties
Why has Vorian Seeds stopped carrying my favorite variety?
Each year, suppliers may discontinue older varieties as breeding programs introduce new and improved products. If you no longer see a favorite variety listed, please contact us – we'll be happy to recommend a suitable substitute.
