Store seeds correctly to extend their longevity. Temperature, humidity, light intensity, and storage container all play an integral part in their longevity.
Seeds should be stored in an environment that is cool and dark with steady temperature levels that do not fluctuate dramatically – some growers even setup a separate fridge specifically to store their seeds!
Temperature
Temperature can make a dramatic impactful difference on how long seeds last in storage. At lower temperatures, seeds have greater odds of lasting longer; those stored above 5 degrees Celsius may begin to deteriorate quickly and breed unwanted microorganisms that destroy their viability.
Seeds should ideally be stored in a cool and dark area at an even temperature, such as garage or shed. A fridge may also work, provided they’re kept airtight in an airtight container with silica sachets for humidity control.
Light is also important when it comes to sowing seeds, as prolonged exposure may confuse their development into thinking that it’s time to germinate, shortening their lifespan significantly and even rendering some inert – meaning they won’t germinate at all! To test if light exposure has had any impact, place seeds in water for testing purposes and watch whether they float or sink.
Humidity
Seeds exposed to rapid temperature shifts deplete their nutrient stores quickly, diminishing viability. High humidity levels promote fungal growth that destroys and damages seeds.
Seed shells that have no longer viable viability will feel brittle, possibly shattering under slight pressure, with an unhealthy dull sheen that indicates they no longer provide moisture-retaining capabilities.
To extend the shelf life of marijuana seeds, place them in an airtight container such as a glass jar with a tight fitting lid and add a desiccant pack made from silica gel or rice for maximum moisture absorption and mold prevention. Frozen storage works similarly; just remember a dark cupboard or drawer without temperature fluctuations will work best when placing in the fridge; you could also try adding cotton into the container beforehand so as to absorb any extra moisture before moving them to refrigeration.
Light
Seeds store their genetic information within hard shells that hold an embryo containing genetic material from which new plants will develop, as well as a nutritional reserve which keeps the seeds viable until it comes time for them to germinate – under ideal conditions, seeds may remain viable for decades!
Cannabis seeds should be stored in an environment with low humidity and light exposure to extend their longevity. Some growers utilize silica bags in containers holding seeds as a way of decreasing humidity while maintaining an ideal temperature level for their seeds.
Seal them in a Ziplock bag and remove all air to create a vacuum-sealed environment for your seeds. Place this bag inside a dark plastic jar so they are protected from refrigerator light while also maintaining a steady temperature. Inspect them regularly to make sure they remain healthy; look out for dense woody scents without cracks or moldy surfaces and healthy seeds will have shiny waxy coatings.
Storage
Temperature changes during storage can have a dramatic impact on seed longevity. Exposing seeds to sudden temperature swings may deplete their reserves before they have the chance to germinate, potentially shortening their lifecycles and diminishing chances of success.
Refrigeration is an ideal place for cannabis seeds to be stored, although light is harmful and should be kept out. A silica gel bag or rice should also be placed inside their storage container as this will absorb any moisture produced by the refrigerator and help protect your seeds.
Your seeds should be stored in an airtight container such as glass jars or sealable plastic bags with airtight lids for the maximum germination rate and increased shelf life. Desiccant bags such as silica gel or rice are an effective way to absorb extra moisture and prolong seed germination when planting time arrives.