Ref germination rate, I was pleasantly surprised by everything from Park Seed.

I got almost 100%.

Very important this year.

I know that folks like to save heirlooms, but fresh seed with a broader genetic base works best.

I learned a LOT from Gardening When It Counts by Solomon. He was a seed grower for many years. That book is about gardening when SHTF as well as when you are simply poor.