Cannabis seeds are living organisms that require proper protection from the elements to last. If carefully stored, you can extend their shelf-life significantly. In this guide, we’ll provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to best store marijuana seeds.
Seed Storage Considerations
Seeds are living organisms. If you don’t take proper care of them, they can die. Using the right techniques for storing cannabis seeds means that you can preserve them for extended periods until you’re ready to plant them.
Before you decide on a suitable method, you need to ensure that the environmental conditions are ideal. The most important considerations are light, humidity levels, and temperature fluctuations. When any of the above factors aren’t correct, it can cause your seeds to germinate early or wilt.
Light Exposure
Seeds are unlikely to germinate when you store them in dark places. Storing your seeds near a window exposed to the sun’s rays can cause roots to sprout. Too much light can also force the seeds to use their nutrients to survive before germination. This exposure causes the seeds to weaken, and they won’t develop once you plant them.
Humidity Levels
When it comes to humidity and storing cannabis seeds, you need to balance them carefully. The ideal range is 21–30% for short-term storage. Preserving seeds for longer periods means you need to keep them as dry as possible at 8–10%. Various levels have different consequences for the seeds.
Temperature Fluctuations
The best way to store marijuana seeds is in cool conditions, with 43°–47°F temperatures. Any fluctuations in these conditions put your seeds at risk. You must keep your containers sealed until you plan to plant them. Opening them exposes the seeds to bacteria and pests.
Best Containers to Store Weed Seeds
If you want to know how to store cannabis seeds with minimal risks, you must choose the appropriate container. Different options are available depending on the duration of storage. Growers typically select between ziplock bags, mason jars, plastic containers, mylar bags, and vacuum sealable containers.
Short-Term Storage
Storing marijuana seeds in the short term is probably the easiest. You can select a drawer or cupboard that’s cool and dark. Ensure that the spot has a consistent temperature. Containers that work well need to be airtight. Many growers use foam canisters, plastic containers, and mylar bags. The main factor is that they need to keep oxygen and water molecules out.
Mid-Term Storage
The best way to store cannabis seeds in the medium term is in an airtight container like a mason jar, ziplock bag, or vacuum sealable container. You can use a refrigerator to extend the lifespan of your seeds. Be sure to check the humidity levels, as some refrigerators have low humidity levels.
Long-Term Storage
If you’re wondering how to store cannabis seeds for more than six months, the most efficient option is a vacuum seal container. Ensure that it’s dark-colored and restricts access to light. Place it at the back of your fridge or freezer. Once again, you need to ensure appropriate RH levels. Use a desiccant to maintain the moisture levels and absorb ethylene.
Steps for Storing Marijuana Seeds
The steps for how to store cannabis seeds are:
1. Label your containers for easy identification later. It also minimizes light exposure.
2. Insert a desiccant and place a layer of cotton wool as a barrier to separate it from the seeds. This step ensures that moisture will be absorbed, and the seeds won’t be disturbed.
3. Put the cannabis seeds on the other side of the cotton barrier and seal the container. Place it in the desired location until you’re ready to plant.
How Long Do Weed Seeds Last?
You can store cannabis seeds for anything from a few days to a few years. You need to control environmental factors carefully, and the better you are at providing optimal conditions, the longer they’ll last.
Most cannabis seeds last up to six months at room temperature, but this timeline extends considerably for users who keep the seeds refrigerated. High-quality options can survive up to 10 years, but the duration varies according to environmental factors and the chosen strain. Hardy cultivars can withstand the test of time, while weaker varieties only last for three years. Even the most expensive cultivars can’t survive in unfavorable conditions.
In conclusion, knowing how to store cannabis seeds is essential if you want to preserve their viability over an extended period. Ensure that you choose the right containers and environmental conditions before storing them away. With proper care and attention, you can extend their life span and enjoy healthy plants when you decide to plant them.