Unless you plant your marijuana seeds as soon as you buy them, you’re probably wondering how long do weed seeds stay good. Well, cannabis seeds can even last you decades if you know how to store marijuana seeds properly.
Whether you have some leftover seeds after planting your latest stash or buy the best marijuana seeds for later use, it is essential to store them correctly. Otherwise, you’ll find your valuable assets rotten or unable to germinate.
To avoid putting yourself through the ordeal, you should create the ideal environment for storing cannabis seeds to preserve them for years at a stretch. If you’re a weed enthusiast, go through this guide to find out how to store weed seeds.
Why Should You Know How to Store Marijuana Seeds?
If you’re wondering how long marijuana seeds stay good, the answer lies in how you store cannabis seeds. That’s why you should know the proper cannabis seed storage process to avoid wasting your precious bucks.
On the contrary, those thinking it is unnecessary to go through the hassle of learning how to store cannabis seeds should remember one important aspect. Unlike other objects you can stash away in any way you like, your seeds are actual living organisms.
Each of these regular cannabis seeds has a living embryo that can germinate into a new plant. Any mistake you make while storing marijuana seeds can decrease their chances of healthy germination.
On the other hand, if you properly know how to preserve cannabis seeds by arranging the perfect environmental factors and containers for the purpose, your seeds can last up to five years.
If you want to maximize your germination rates whenever you intend to use your seeds, follow our guide for how to store weed seeds effectively.
How to Store Cannabis Seeds the Right Way?
A Step-By-Step Guide
Now that you know why storing cannabis seeds is important, it is time to learn the correct method. This way, you can avoid premature germination and, worse, rotting your seeds before time.
Here are some steps to follow before storing cannabis seeds in a sealed container to protect their efficacy.
Regulate the Temperature
As mentioned, your seeds are living embryos that can feel and sense their environment. That’s why, if you’re thinking how long do weed seeds stay good, they will last longer if you control temperature fluctuations.
When seeds feel the heat, it is a cue for them to start germinating. The seed will break its tough outer shell open to let the root shoot out. This is an excellent scenario if your seed is planted in soil, but if not, it will soon get infested with bacteria and start rotting.
Even warm daytime temperatures can result in contaminated seeds if you’re going for long-term storage. That’s why keep the ideal temperature around 38 ℉ and reduce temperature fluctuations as much as possible.
You can also try storing cannabis seeds in the freezer to avoid temperature fluctuations. However, make sure you store your seeds at the back of your refrigerator, where the temperature and light remain constant at all times. Remember, freezing your seeds requires proper curing and prepping, so only go for the option if you’re ready for the job.
Keep an Eye on the Humidity Level
High humidity levels can also trigger the germination power of your seeds and have them break their shells before time. Therefore, you should store your cannabis seeds in a place with minimum humidity fluctuations.
Remember, your storage space should neither be too humid nor too dry. Go for a maximum of 5% humidity level. This not only keeps their waxy layer intact but also keeps the seeds viable.
Provide Optimal Light Exposure
For those asking how to preserve cannabis seeds, minimizing exposure to direct light is an essential factor to consider. Like heat and humidity, light also wakes the seed up and triggers germination.
You should choose a dark place or a lightproof container for storing cannabis seeds. However, if you’re using glass jars, you shouldn’t place them in the refrigerator. That’s because the bulb in your refrigerator is a germination booster as well.
But, if you’re targeting long-term storage, try storing marijuana seeds in a dark corner of your freezer that doesn’t get opened frequently.
Keep Away From Atmospheric Gases
Lastly, you’ll need to control the amount of atmospheric gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide that come into contact with your seeds. The best way to do this is by preserving cannabis seeds in an airtight container.
Additionally, you can also go for vacuum-sealed plastic bags if you’re going for long-term storage.
Choose The Right Container for Storing Marijuana Seeds
The initial steps for those asking how to store cannabis seeds are to regulate the light exposure and control temperature and humidity fluctuations. Once you have done that, the next step for storing cannabis seeds correctly is to choose the correct container.
Luckily, there are many ideal containers for marijuana seeds, so you can select any of them according to your convenience. Here’s a list of proper storage containers.
Vacuum Sealed Container
This ideal storage method ensures your cannabis seeds remain viable for extended intervals. Make sure to vacuum seal any container you choose to store seeds safely inside. If you intend on storing large amounts of seeds, buying a vacuum sealer is the best way for you.
You can even vacuum seal a small container like a ziplock bag and store it in a vacuum-sealed container such as a mason jar for extended storage.
Mason Jar
Mason or glass jars are the most suitable containers for your cannabis seeds. You can store your cannabis seeds in these jars to ensure they remain viable for a few months.
Moreover, if you use a vacuum-sealed glass container with rubber stoppers, you can even use it for long-term storage. Just minimize any exposure to air and light by covering the jar in an opaque coating. After that, your seeds can last up to five years in the freezer.
Envelopes
Envelopes are handy containers for the short-term storage of marijuana seeds. Not only will it keep your seeds safe from external light, but it will also reduce temperature and humidity fluctuations.
However, make sure you keep these envelopes in a cool, dark place. This can be anywhere, like a kitchen shelf or a drawer in your closet.
Final Words on Storing Cannabis Seeds
And that’s it. Carefully sealing your containers and keeping your seeds away from light, heat, and the air is the best way to store cannabis seeds. If you’re asking how long cannabis seeds last, they can stay good for decades if you store them correctly.
Besides that, make sure to label your containers while storing seeds. This way, you will know when to plant your cannabis seeds for increased germination rates.
