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Q. Could you please tell me how long can I store garden seeds? I would like to get them just in case the economy crashes but not necessarily use them right away.
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How to Store Garden Seeds for Maximum Viability
The length of viability of heirloom vegetable garden seeds depends upon the variety. Some will only keep a high germination rate for one or two years, while others will keep well for ten years. In either case, to store garden seeds for the longest viability and preservation of germination rate, freezing is the most effective method. (Note: heirloom garden seeds must be 8% moisture or below to freeze them. In the quotes below, you will find how to tell if they are dry enough).
Recommended Resource: “Seed to Seed” by Suzanne Ashworth
A great resource to answer the question of how long each variety will store and frequently reference ourselves titled” Seed to Seed” by Suzanne Ashworth. We would highly recommend finding this book at your local library if possible and purchasing it if you find it useful, it is a wealth of information on the subject of growing, saving, and storing a large variety of heirloom/open-pollinated seeds.
Here are several quotes from this book highlighting storage of seeds:
- “Seeds will retain maximum vigor when thoroughly dried and stored in a moisture proof container”
- “The two greatest enemies of stored seeds are high temperature and high moisture. Seeds that are stored at fluctuating temperature and moisture levels will quickly loose their ability to germinate.”
- “Glass and metal are the only common materials that are completely moisture proof. Glass jars with good rubber seals under the lids, such as baby food jars or canning jars with new lids, provide a nearly airtight seal when screwed on really tight.”
- “Seeds of all species can be stored for many years with almost no loss of germination and only minimal loss of vigor, when dried to about 8% seed moisture, sealed into an airtight container(such as in the above quote) and frozen.”
- “A quick and easy test (to see if dry enough) is that seeds will break instead of bending when folded if their moisture level is 8% or less. Also hard shelled seeds, such as beans or corn, will shatter instead of mashing when placed on concrete and struck with a hammer.”
Drying Heirloom Seeds: Tips for Safe Moisture Control
A way we have found of drying heirloom seeds for the home gardener to bring the moisture low enough, and keep high viability is using a food dehydrator, with very careful monitoring of temperature, as anything over 95°F will damage the seeds viability. We always keep at 85°f to be safe. Even placing on a window screen with a fan blowing on them until they are dry enough works.
Freezing vs. Refrigerating heirloom Seeds: Best Storage Methods
Freezing will give you the longest storage of heirloom garden seeds, but you do have to make sure that their moisture level is low enough or the seeds will expand and crack and be ruined. They can also store well (but not as long), without the worry of whether they are of low enough moisture level, in a mason jar tightly sealed in the fridge, and for even better storage in the fridge wrap them either on the inside of the jar or outside with a material that will help keep out light.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing garden seeds for long-term viability requires careful attention to moisture levels and storage conditions. By properly drying heirloom seeds and using airtight containers, you can maximize their lifespan. Freezing seeds is the most effective method for long-term storage, provided they are dried to the appropriate moisture content. Refrigeration also works well for shorter term storage when freezing isn’t an option. With the right techniques, you can preserve your seeds for years to come, ensuring a successful garden whenever you’re ready to plant.
FAQ: Storing Garden Seeds for Long-Term Viability
How long can garden seeds be stored?
The storage length depends on the seed variety. Some seeds can retain a high germination rate for 1-2 years, while others can last up to 10 years or more when stored properly.
What’s the best way to store heirloom seeds?
Freezing seeds in airtight, moisture-proof containers is the best method for long-term storage, provided the seeds are dried to 8% moisture or lower.
How do I know if my seeds are dry enough for freezing?
To test for proper dryness, seeds should break instead of bend when folded. For hard-shelled seeds like beans or corn, they should shatter when struck with a hammer.
Can I store seeds in the fridge instead of freezing them?
Yes, seeds can be stored in tightly sealed mason jars in the fridge for shorter-term storage. Wrapping the jars to keep out light will extend their viability.
What happens if seeds are frozen with too much moisture?
If seeds contain too much moisture, they may expand and crack when frozen, which can damage or destroy their viability.
Can I use a food dehydrator to dry seeds?
Yes, a food dehydrator can be used for drying heirloom seeds, but it’s important to keep the temperature below 95°F to avoid damaging seed viability. We recommend maintaining a temperature of 85°F to be safe.
Do heirloom garden seeds need to be stored in darkness?
Storing garden seeds in darkness or wrapping containers to keep out light can help preserve their germination rate for a longer time.
What’s a good resource for learning more about seed storage?
The book Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth is an excellent resource for learning about seed growing, saving, and storing a wide variety of heirloom and open-pollinated seeds.
Any thing that does not lead you to God is a hindrance. Root it out and throw it far from you.
– Jose Maria Escriva
