To store seeds effectively for future growing, the primary goals are to keep them cool and dry. Achieving these conditions helps maintain seed viability for extended periods.
Key Principles for Seed Storage
Proper seed storage hinges on controlling environmental factors, mainly temperature and moisture. Seeds are living embryos in a dormant state, and minimizing metabolic activity is crucial for long-term preservation.
Temperature
Keeping seeds cool significantly slows down the aging process.
- Ideal Range: According to UMN Extension, a temperature between 32° and 41°F is considered ideal for seed storage.
- Practical Solution: Your refrigerator can be a good place to store seeds because it typically maintains temperatures within or close to this optimal range.
Moisture
Excess moisture is detrimental to stored seeds as it can lead to mold, rot, or premature germination.
- Keep Seeds Dry: It's essential to ensure seeds are thoroughly dry before storing them.
- Controlling Humidity: Even after drying, ambient moisture can be absorbed. Adding a small amount of silica-gel desiccant to each storage container will absorb moisture from the air and help keep the seeds dry, as recommended by UMN Extension.
Recommended Storage Environment
Combining the principles of cool and dry storage provides the best results.
Here's a summary of best practices:
| Condition | Requirement | Practical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Cool (32°F - 41°F ideal) | Refrigerator |
| Moisture | Dry | Store thoroughly dried seeds; Use silica-gel desiccant |
| Light | Dark | Opaque containers or dark location (like a refrigerator) |
| Container | Airtight | Glass jars, plastic containers, Mylar bags |
Practical Steps for Storing Seeds
- Dry Seeds Thoroughly: Ensure seeds are completely dry before storage. Methods vary depending on the seed type, but generally involve air drying in a cool, dry place.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place dried seeds in airtight containers such as glass jars, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or Mylar bags. This prevents moisture from re-entering.
- Add Desiccant: As suggested by UMN Extension, include a small packet or amount of silica-gel desiccant inside the container to absorb any residual moisture.
- Store in a Cool Location: Store the airtight, desiccated containers in a cool place. A refrigerator is an excellent option due to its consistent cool temperature. A freezer can extend viability further for some seeds, but it's crucial seeds are very dry first.
- Label Properly: Label each container with the seed type and date of storage.
By following these steps, focusing on keeping seeds cool and dry, you can significantly improve the longevity and viability of your stored seeds.
