Agreed.
I once ordered 100 seeds from a sponsor here. It was a long time ago so the name doesn't matter. They aren't around anyways.
Of those 100 seeds, exactly 4 sprouted. After that failure, I planted other seeds right in the same cups and they all sprouted.
Now, there is so much more demand for seeds, I often wonder if seed banks don't just have one bin marked "Indica," another marked "Purple," and once more marked, "Sativa." 3 types of seeds and 100 different labels.
I know that there are no doubt some EXCELLENT and ethical seed vendors out there, but my experience has not been one that caused me to put a lot of confidence in them, in general.
Two notable exceptions: BOG. Every seed has germed. The strains come out as advertised. Also, ExoticGenetix. We've got some very promising strains from them recently and again.....they work as advertised.
If you are ever in the market for seeds again check out Dynasty Seeds. They are one of the most legit breeders i have come across. If I had room to breed and keep males I would have kept 2 of the 3 males I have gotten from them. Awesome structure, health, vigor and more stank in veg than most females I run in flower!
I have a Sour Strawberry from BOG going and I am very pleased so far. It did not veg the fastest, but through all the stress I have put all my plants through In the last month or so it has fared the best. I need to pop more of their seed that I have and I wish i had ordered their Sour Grape. Yours always looked amazing.
I feel like some of the pick n mix sites may do just what you said. Also there are some "breeder" banks that seem like the do the same as well.