Hi, there Susan. Welcome to Garden Web ! My best suggestion in regards to your question about it possibly being too late to winter sow would be to read the Winter Sowing FAQ. There is a link at the top of the page that says FAQ. The answer to that question is in there, under 'When should I stop?'

Your second question about knowing the viability of older seed packs would be to check their germination. You can find some very basic info from the link at the bottom and also by looking around here a little bit more.... Good luck, Susan. I hope you enjoy your time here.

Happy Gardening,

Kristie

Here is a link that might be useful: viability link

Hi Susan..in your zone, you can go for it. You could probably start perennials now. Just try the older seedpacks, you may be surprised at what germinates. Lots of more info at wintersown.org.
If you'd like some hardy annual seeds to try, I'll gladly send you some so you can save money by not buying commercial packs. It only takes a 1.15 stamp and your return address (I'll provide the return bubble envelope.) Email me if you'd like some seeds to get you going.

Wendy

Welcome Susan!! As Wendy said, in your zone you can still sow perennials. I am still sowing perennials since we ae still experiencing freezing overnight. I tried the paper towel test for viability this year and it worked well. In fact, I have potted up the few pepper seeds that germinated out of about 15 - very low percentage but that's all I need. Good luck!!!

Hi Susan,
As far as viability goes, like everyone said..just go for it. If you don't want to do the paper towel test, then just sow a bit thicker. All it takes is one seedling to grow to maturity and set seed and then you will have lots of seeds for next year's garden! :-)
gg