X-rays probably wouldn't be of a level that would harm seeds. It just doesn't take that much intensity to image such a thin light package as an envelope of seeds. X-rays might harm film though, and there is special packaging available to protect film.
The irradiation would definitely be more of a concern, since it's purpose is sterilizing possible biological agents with heat, what it's really doing is "cooking" the mail. But it is only done to mail going to certain government offices in 202-205xx zip codes.
The seeds are rather flat, so I don't think going through the processing equipment is going to crush them or anything either.
So I think we can eliminate most normal theories as to mailing causing the low germination rates.
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