Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the viability of seeds over an extended period. Here are some effective methods to ensure the longevity of your seeds:
Storage Methods:
Sealed Mason Jar in Refrigerator:
Place seeds in a sealed mason jar and store it in the refrigerator.
Open the jar at least once a year to allow oxygen inside for better preservation.
Paper Bag or Box in Fridge (Not Freezer):
Store seeds in a paper bag or box in the refrigerator, avoiding freezing temperatures.
Sealed Mason Jar in a Cool Area:
Keep seeds in a sealed mason jar in a cool area of the house, maintaining a stable temperature.
Germination Test
What is the viability of your seeds? Conduct a simple germination test:
Damp Paper Towel Method:
- Place a small portion (at least 20 seeds) in a damp paper towel inside a ziplock bag.
- Put the bag in a warm place, like above the refrigerator.
- Monitor and count germinated seeds. Note: Pepper and eggplant seeds might require higher temperatures for optimal germination.
Germination Rate
Germination rates are a personal preference. As a seed company, a rate above 80% is typically required for each crop. Home gardeners have the flexibility to choose seeds according to their preferences.
Seed Longevity:
Under suitable conditions, most seeds can last three years or more on average.
Onion seeds are an exception, maintaining good germination for about a year, even under optimal storage conditions.
Seed Storage Guide
Seed Crop Average Life in Storage (years)
| Seed Crop | Average Life (years) |
|---|---|
| Amaranth | 4-5 |
| Arugula | 6 |
| Basil | 3-5 |
| Beans | 2-4 |
| Beets | 2-5 |
| Broccoli | 3-5 |
| Cabbage | 3-5 |
| Calendula | 4-6 |
| Carrots | 3-4 |
| Chicory | 4-5 |
| Chinese Cabbage | 3-5 |
| Cilantro | 1-4 |
| Cosmos | 3-5 |
| Cucumber | 3-6 |
| Dill | 1-4 |
| Dry Corn | 5-10 |
| Eggplant | 4-5 |
| Fennel | 3-4 |
| Hairy Vetch | 5 |
| Kale | 3-5 |
| Leeks | 2-3 |
| Lettuce | 1-6 |
| Marigold | 2-5 |
| Melon | 3-6 |
| Mustard Greens | 4 |
| Nasturtium | 3-7 |
| Nigella | 3-5 |
| Okra | 2-3 |
| Onions | 1-2 |
| Parsley | 1-4 |
| Parsnip | 1-3 |
| Peas | 2-4 |
| Peppers | 2-5 |
| Poppy | 2-4 |
| Pumpkins | 4-6 |
| Radish | 4-5 |
| Rye | 1-3 |
| Spinach | 1-5 |
| Squash | 3-6 |
| Sunflowers | 3-5 |
| Swiss Chard | 2-5 |
| Sweet Corn | 2-3 |
| Tomato | 3-7 |
| Watermelon | 4-5 |
| Zinnia | 2-5 |
Source: Seed storage data compiled from Johnny’s Seed Storage Guide.