Wondering how to store cannabis seeds to keep them viable for future use? The key is to protect them from light, heat, and humidity. This guide will explain the best methods for both short-term and long-term storage, detail the environments that harm seed viability, and provide practical tips to ensure your seeds are ready to germinate.
Bare in mind that germinating cannabis seeds is illegal in many countries, the UK included, but you can collect cannabis seeds legally in the UK. Check your local laws before germinating cannabis seeds and always stay on the right side of the law. This information is only for countries where germination is legal, or where you possess the right licenses to germinate them legally.
Quick Breakdown
- Proper cannabis seed storage is crucial to preserving their viability and ensuring successful germination by protecting them from light, heat, and humidity.
- Short-term storage of cannabis seeds should involve keeping them in cool, dark, and dry places, while long-term storage is best achieved using airtight, non-transparent containers with desiccants, stored in a refrigerator or freezer.
- Checking seed viability through visual inspection and germination tests is essential before planting, and older seeds can be revived using techniques such as soaking in nutrient solutions or scarification.
Why Proper Cannabis Seed Storage Matters
Storing cannabis seeds is a delicate process that aims to preserve their viability and ensure successful germination. Think of cannabis seeds as tiny vaults of genetic potential, each one containing the blueprint for a future plant. To maintain this potential, it’s crucial to slow down the natural decline of the hormones inside the seed by eliminating exposure to:
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fresh air
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light
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humidity
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heat
Proper storage conditions can keep these seeds stored and viable for an extended period, which is essential for future cultivation and breeding projects.
The main enemies of cannabis seeds are light, heat, and humidity. These factors can significantly reduce germination rates and overall seed viability. For instance, light can trigger premature germination, heat can accelerate the degradation of seed viability, and humidity can lead to mold growth. Therefore, maintaining low temperatures, dry conditions, and darkness is paramount in preserving cannabis seeds, no matter if they are feminised cannabis seeds or autoflowering cannabis seeds. This is why purchasing Auto Seeds cannabis seeds and other well-known breeders such as Barneys Farm and Dutch Passion from Ali Bongo is important; the packaging makes a difference and should be opaque and robust enough to keep the seeds safe.
Correctly storing your cannabis seeds not only preserves their viability but also guarantees that these seeds will successfully germinate and grow into healthy plants when planted. Knowing how to properly store seeds can make all the difference in your cultivation efforts, turning a simple seed into a thriving cannabis plant.
How Do The Experts Store Their Cannabis Seeds?
We caught up with our friends and expert breeders over at Auto Seeds and asked how they manage to keep such a high viability rate when storing their seeds:
“To keep your cannabis seeds as fresh as possible you need to protect them from heat, light and moisture. We package our seeds in plastic vials and then seal them inside airtight metallised mylar pouches, this prevents exposure to moisture but also reflects heat and UV light. If the seeds you purchase come in a mylar bag or vial, keep them inside their packs until you are ready to use them. If you’re not growing them all at once, reseal the package with some tape to keep it airtight. In our warehouse we use commercial fridges that stay at a constant 4 degrees Celsius, this is to replicate the winter-like dormancy period that prevents germination. Ordinary household fridges are fine too, but they do produce lots of condensation. To prevent this from affecting your seeds place them inside a click lock box with a sachet of silica gel, this will help to absorb any unwanted moisture.”
Short Term Storage for Cannabis Seeds
When it comes to short-term storage, the goal is to minimize factors that could harm the seeds. Cannabis seeds are living organisms, and minimizing light, heat, and humidity exposure is crucial for maintaining their viability. For short-term storage, keep your seeds in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will prevent exposure to light and rapid temperature changes, which can be detrimental to the seeds.
The upcoming sections will delve into the specifics of managing light exposure, temperature, and humidity. These are the key elements that need to be managed effectively to ensure your seeds stay viable in the short term.
Light Exposure
Minimizing light exposure is a critical step in preserving the viability of cannabis seeds. In their natural environment, cannabis seeds are typically covered by a light layer of soil, protecting them from direct light. When storing seeds, use a sealed, light-proof container to block out all light. Opaque containers are essential as they prevent any light from reaching the seeds, which could otherwise degrade them over time.
Storing seeds in a dark place further protects them from light exposure. This is an important factor since even a small amount of light can trigger premature germination or degrade the seed’s quality. Therefore, choose containers that are specifically designed to be light-proof and store them in a consistently dark environment.
Temperature Control
Preserving the cellular biochemistry of cannabis seeds requires maintaining stable, cold temperatures. Cold temperatures slow down the metabolic processes within the seed, effectively putting them in a state of dormancy and extending their viability. The optimal temperature for storing cannabis seeds is around 4ºC, which can be easily maintained in a refrigerator.
To ensure the viability of your seeds, follow these tips:
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Avoid temperature fluctuations as they can reduce seed viability.
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Consistent temperatures, ideally around 4ºC, help keep the seeds in a dormant state, preventing premature germination and ensuring the seeds remain viable for a longer period.
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Using airtight containers can further protect the seeds from temperature variations.
Humidity Management
Seed storage requires effective humidity management as high humidity can impair germination viability and induce mold growth. The recommended moisture content inside the seed for long-term storage is around 10%. Ensuring that seeds are properly dried before storage is essential to maintaining this low humidity level.
Using desiccant packs or silica gel in storage containers can help absorb excess moisture and maintain a dry environment. Seeds should be dried for a couple of months at room temperature to become more viable before storing them. This practice will help preserve the seeds by preventing exposure to excess moisture and inappropriate conditions.
Long Term Storage Solutions for Cannabis Seeds
For long-term storage, maintaining optimal conditions is even more critical. The recommended method includes:
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Placing cannabis seeds inside a non-transparent, resealable zipper storage bag
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Adding moisture-absorbing silica gels to the bag
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Storing the bag in a mini-fridge kept between 31-41°F (2-5°C)
These conditions help keep the seeds viable for an extended period, even up to five years or more.
The following sections will provide a detailed exploration of storage methods such as refrigerator storage, freezer storage, and the use of desiccants. These methods are essential for anyone looking to store cannabis seeds for the long term, ensuring they remain viable and ready to germinate when needed.
Refrigerator Storage
Storing cannabis seeds in the refrigerator presents one of the most effective methods for prolonging their life. Keeping seeds in the fridge at around 4ºC helps maintain a consistent temperature and reduces humidity levels, significantly slowing down the aging process. This can preserve seed viability for many years, making it a preferred method for long-term storage.
To optimize refrigerator storage, follow these tips:
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Use airtight and light-proof containers.
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Less frequently opened fridges are ideal as they minimize temperature fluctuations.
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Wrap glass jars in a towel or bubble wrap to help buffer any temperature changes, further protecting the seeds.
Freezer Storage
Storing cannabis seeds in a freezer can dramatically prolong their lifespan, potentially preserving them for up to five years with a high germination rate. However, it’s crucial to ensure that seeds are thoroughly dried before freezing to avoid ice crystal formation, which can damage the seeds. Properly sealing the seeds in an airtight container before freezing is also essential to prevent moisture damage.
While freezer storage offers great benefits, it comes with risks and not really recommended by professional seed collectors. Mishandling or shaking frozen seeds can shatter them, so it’s often recommended to use refrigerator storage where there is less room for error.
Using Desiccants
Desiccants such as silica gel are instrumental in maintaining low humidity levels in storage containers, a key factor in preserving seed viability and warding off mold. Desiccant packs help absorb excess moisture, creating a dry environment that protects the seeds from humidity-related issues.
For effective long-term storage, use high-quality plastic containers with desiccant packs to maintain a dry environment. The ideal humidity level for storing cannabis seeds is between 20-30%, which can be achieved using desiccants. This practice ensures that the seeds remain dry and viable for extended periods.
Choosing the Right Storage Containers
Selecting suitable storage containers is a crucial step in maintaining the viability of cannabis seeds. Airtight containers prevent moisture and air from reaching the seeds, maintaining their viability. Some of the best options include glass jars, plastic containers, and vacuum-sealed bags, each offering unique benefits.
In terms of a container we recommend, the TightVac is an amazing solution to store your cannabis seeds. Not only is the TightVac a vacuum-sealed container, it comes in a large variety of sizes, and trust us, we know how bulky seed packaging can be from certain breeders. With the UV protection, light but sturdy build, and vacuum-seal, you'll be able to safely and effectively store your cannabis seeds for years, plus, the larger sizes offer a silica gel packet included.
The upcoming subsections will discuss the advantages of various container types, guiding you in making an informed decision for your seed storage needs.
Glass Jars
Glass jars are an excellent choice for storing cannabis seeds because:
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They are non-reactive.
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They provide an airtight seal against moisture.
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Using rubber stoppers with glass jars can further limit air exchange, preserving the seeds.
Additionally, dark glass jars can protect seeds from light exposure, which is crucial for maintaining their viability. Glass jars are durable and allow for easy visibility of their contents, making them a practical option for seed storage.
Plastic Containers
High-quality plastic containers are another viable option for storing cannabis seeds, including marijuana seeds. They are lightweight, durable, and less prone to breaking compared to glass. To ensure the best protection, choose plastic containers with airtight seals to prevent moisture and air from reaching the seeds.
Plastic containers are also affordable and versatile, making them a popular choice for both short-term and long-term storage. Ensure that the containers are of good quality to provide the necessary protection for your cannabis seeds.
Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Vacuum-sealed bags are excellent for long-term storage as they remove air from the container, protecting seeds from moisture and contaminants. These bags create an optimal environment for preserving seed viability by minimizing exposure to air and moisture.
Using vacuum-sealed bags can significantly extend the storage life of cannabis seeds, making them an ideal choice for those looking to store seeds for several years. This method ensures that the seeds remain dry and uncontaminated, ready to germinate when needed.
Regular Baggies
Although not as effective as vacuum-sealed bags, your standard baggie can be effective as a short term solution for cannabis storage.
We would recommend checking out the range of Black Smell Proof Baggies. These well-loved bags have a double locking zipper, are puncture, tear and water ressistant, completely smell proof and due to the opaqueness of the black version they protect your seeds from UV light. We'd still recommend keeping this baggie inside a dark container, making sure your seeds are stored properly is paramount.
How to Check Seed Viability
Before planting, it’s important to check the viability of cannabis seeds to guarantee successful germination and of course to check local laws to see if this is legal to do so. Two primary methods are used to assess seed viability: visual inspection and germination tests. These methods help you determine whether your seeds are healthy and capable of sprouting into robust plants.
The upcoming subsections will delve into these methods in detail, offering practical tips to effectively evaluate your cannabis seeds’ viability.
Visual Inspection
Visual inspection involves closely examining the seeds for any signs of damage or deterioration. Healthy cannabis seeds are typically firm, plump, and have a uniform color. Look for cracks, discoloration, or shriveling, as these signs can indicate that the seeds are not viable.
While visual inspection can give you a good initial indication of seed health, it’s not foolproof. Sometimes, seeds that look healthy may still fail to germinate, and those that appear damaged might surprise you with successful germination. Therefore, it’s essential to combine this method with other viability tests for a more accurate assessment.
Germination Test
Germination tests provide a more definitive way to check seed viability. One popular method is the paper towel technique, which involves placing seeds on a moist paper towel, folding it, and keeping it in a warm, dark place until the seeds sprout. This method can show results in a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the seed type.
Another method is the seedling test, where seeds are planted in soil and observed for sprouting and healthy seedling growth over one to two weeks. Both methods provide a clear indication of whether your seeds are viable and ready for planting. However, always check local laws regarding germination tests to ensure compliance.
Ultimately there is no way to tell for absolute certain if a seed is viable or not without doing a germination test, which should only be done in a legal environment.
Reviving Old Cannabis Seeds
Cannabis seeds may gradually lose their viability, complicating the process of seed germination. Nonetheless, specific techniques can revive old seeds, enhancing their chances to germinate cannabis seeds. These methods include soaking in nutrient solutions and scarification.
The subsequent subsections will elaborate on these techniques, offering practical steps to rejuvenate your years old cannabis seeds and ensure the healthy growth of your cannabis plants.
Soaking in Nutrient Solution
Soaking cannabis seeds in room-temperature water for 12 to 24 hours can help soften the seed coat and initiate the germination process. For added effectiveness, you can use water with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide, which can help soften the seed shell and promote germination.
Keep the soaking water at around 22°C and shielded from light during this process. This method can significantly increase the chances of older seeds germinating, giving them a new lease on life.
Scarification
Scarification involves gently scratching or sanding the seed coat to encourage water absorption and germination. Using fine sandpaper to create micro-abrasions on the seed shell can help water infiltrate and trigger germination.
Another method is making a very slight transverse cut on the seed shell with a knife, which can also facilitate water penetration and promote germination. These techniques can be particularly useful for older seeds that have a tougher outer shell.
Summary
In summary, proper cannabis seed storage is essential for maintaining seed viability and ensuring successful germination. By understanding the factors that affect seed viability—light, heat, and humidity—you can implement effective short-term and long-term storage solutions. Using the right storage containers, such as glass jars, plastic containers, and vacuum-sealed bags, further protects your seeds from environmental factors.
Regularly checking seed viability through visual inspections and germination tests can help you identify and address any potential issues. For older seeds, techniques like soaking in nutrient solutions and scarification can revive their germination potential. By following these best practices, you can store your cannabis seeds effectively, ensuring they remain viable and ready for future cultivation.
Rest assured too, that all different types of cannabis seeds can be stored the same way, so whether you have some high THC seeds, high yield seeds, feminised, regular or autoflowering cannabis seeds, then all of the information here applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to store cannabis seeds properly?
It is important to store cannabis seeds properly to maintain seed viability and ensure successful germination by protecting them from light, heat, and humidity.
What are the best containers for storing cannabis seeds?
The best containers for storing cannabis seeds are airtight ones like glass jars, plastic containers, and vacuum-sealed bags. Choose any of these options for optimal seed preservation.
How can I check if my cannabis seeds are still viable?
To check if your cannabis seeds are still viable, perform a visual inspection for damage and conduct germination tests using the paper towel method. These methods can help you determine the viability of your seeds.
What should I do to revive old cannabis seeds?
To revive old cannabis seeds, try soaking them in nutrient solutions and using scarification techniques to boost their germination chances. These methods can help improve the viability of older seeds.
How should I manage humidity levels when storing cannabis seeds?
To manage humidity levels when storing cannabis seeds, use desiccants like silica gel in airtight containers to maintain low humidity and prevent moisture damage.
