How To Store Cannabis Seeds Long Term To Preserve Their Freshness

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How To Store Cannabis Seeds Long Term To Preserve Their Freshness

If you are a grower or marijuana enthusiast, you may have wondered what is the best way to store cannabis seeds for long-term use. Cannabis seeds are living organisms that can remain viable for years if stored properly. However, if you neglect them or expose them to unfavorable conditions, they may lose their germination potential or even die.

In this blog post, we will explain the best practices for storing cannabis seeds long term and how to avoid common mistakes that can ruin your precious seeds.

What Are The Ideal Conditions For Storing Cannabis Seeds?

Weed seeds need three main factors to stay dormant and preserve their quality: low temperature, low humidity, air, and darkness. These factors prevent the seeds from sprouting prematurely, developing mold or fungus, or degrading due to oxidation.

1. Temperature:

The lower the temperature, the slower the metabolic rate of the seeds, which means they can last longer without losing their viability. However, very low temperatures can also cause freezing damage or condensation, which can harm the seeds. Therefore, it is important to choose a suitable storage temperature based on how long you intend to keep your seeds.

2. Humidity Level:

The lower the humidity, the less moisture in the seeds, which means they are less likely to germinate or rot. However, very low humidity can also cause the seeds to dry out and lose their vitality. Therefore, it is important to keep your seeds in an airtight container with some moisture-absorbing material, such as silica gel packets or rice grains.

Humidity Levels	Effects on Cannabis Seeds
75% to 100%	Avoid too high humidity, as it can cause seeds to rot or lose their germination potential over time.
25% to 75%	This is the optimum humidity for cannabis seed storage, especially if they are stored in airtight, dark containers at low temperatures.
0% to 25%	Avoid too low humidity, seeds can dry out too much, damaging their vitality.

3. Light Exposure:

The less light exposure, the less activation of the photosensitive chemicals in the seeds, which means they are less likely to sprout or degrade. However, complete darkness is not necessary, as long as the light is not too bright or direct. Therefore, it is important to keep your seeds in a dark and dry place, such as a closet or a drawer.

4. Air Exposure:

The less oxygen in the air, the less oxidation of the fatty acids in the seeds, which means they are less likely to go rancid or lose their potency. However, too little air can also cause anaerobic conditions, which can promote bacterial growth or fermentation. Therefore, it is important to keep your seeds in a breathable container, such as a paper bag or a glass jar with a loose lid.

What Is The Optimal Temperature To Store Your Cannabis Seeds?

The optimal temperature for storing seeds depends on how long you plan to keep them. Generally speaking, the lower the temperature, the longer the shelf life of the seeds. However, you should also consider the risk of freezing damage and condensation if you store your seeds in very low temperatures.

Here are some guidelines for different storage temperatures:

Room temperature (15-21°C): This is suitable for short term seed storage of up to a few months. You should keep your seeds in a dark and dry place, such as a closet or a drawer.
Refrigerator (4-10°C): This is suitable for storing your seeds for up to a few years. You should keep your seeds in an airtight container with some moisture-absorbing material, such as silica gel packets or rice grains.
Freezer (-15 to -20ºC): This is suitable for storing your seeds for several years or more. You should follow the same steps as for refrigerating your seeds, but make sure the container is completely sealed and dry. Freezing your seeds will slow down their metabolic activity and extend their lifespan. However, you should be careful when thawing your seeds, as sudden changes in temperature can damage their cells. You should let them gradually reach room temperature before planting them.

What Is The Best Way to Store Cannabis Seed Proper?

Now that you know the optimal conditions for storing marijuana seeds properly, you may wonder where and how to properly store them. There are many options available, depending on your preferences, budget, and space. Here are some of the best containers options and places to preserve cannabis seeds:

1. In a glass jar or plastic container with a tight lid:

This is a simple and convenient storage container for preserving cannabis seeds far from moisture and light. You can use mason jars, jam jars, or any other glass or plastic container with a screw-on lid. You can also add some silica gel packets or rice grains to absorb any excess moisture inside the jar. Store the jar in a cool and dark place, such as a cupboard, closet, or basement.

2. In a vacuum sealed bag:

This is a more advanced and secure method that prevents any air or moisture from reaching the seeds. You can use a vacuum sealer machine or a hand pump to suck out all the air from the bag and seal it tightly. You can then store the bag in a cool and dark place, or even in the freezer for long-term storage.

3. Mylar Bag

These are lightweight, unobtrusive storage options that also block out light and oxygen. You can use a paper bag to wrap seeds individually or in small groups. You can then label the pouches or bags with the strain name, date, and other pertinent information. Store them in a cool, dark place, such as a drawer, box, or safe.

4. Plastic Ziploc Bags

This is a cheap and easy storage option that can work well if done correctly. You can use small Ziploc bags to store the seeds individually or in small groups. You can then squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag and seal it tightly. You can also add some silica gel packets or rice grains to absorb any excess moisture inside the bag. Store the bag in a cool and dark place, such as a refrigerator or freezer.

How Long Can I Store Marijuana Seeds?

The longevity of marijuana seeds depends on several factors, such as their age, quality, genetics, and storage conditions. However, as a general rule of thumb, cannabis seeds can last between 2 and 5 years in storage if kept under optimal conditions.

However, this does not mean that cannabis seeds will lose their viability after this period. Some cannabis seeds can remain viable for up to 10 years or more if stored properly. However, their germination rate will decline over time, meaning that fewer seeds will sprout successfully.

How Can I Tell If Your Cannabis Seeds Are Still Good?

There are some simple ways to tell if your cannabis seeds are still good by looking at their appearance and performing some tests.

First of all, you can examine the color, shape, and size of your cannabis seeds. Healthy cannabis seeds are usually dark brown or gray with black stripes or spots. They should also be round, plump, and hard. If your cannabis seeds are green, white, yellow, or pale, they may be immature or old. If they are cracked, shriveled, soft, or hollow, they may be damaged or rotten.

Secondly, you can perform a squeeze test on your cannabis seeds. You can gently press your cannabis seeds between your thumb and index finger and see if they resist the pressure. If they do, they are likely viable and strong. If they crumble or crack under pressure, they are probably dead or weak.

Thirdly, you can perform a float test on your cannabis seeds. You can drop your cannabis seeds into a glass of water and wait for a few hours. If they sink to the bottom, they are likely viable and heavy. If they float on the surface, they are probably dead or light.

However, keep in mind that these tests are not 100% accurate and reliable. The only way to know for sure if your cannabis seeds are still good is to germinate them and see if they sprout.

How To Prevent Insects And Pests From Infesting Your Cannabis Seeds?

Insects and pests can be a nightmare for any grower, as they can damage or destroy your cannabis seeds before you even get a chance to plant them. Some of the most common insects and pests that attack cannabis seeds are:

Mice and rats: These rodents have a keen sense of smell and can easily sniff out your cannabis seeds. They can chew through paper envelopes, mylar bags, and even glass jars to get to your seeds. They can also contaminate your seeds with their droppings and urine, which can cause mold and diseases.
Moths: Moths are attracted to light and can fly into your storage area if you leave it exposed. They can lay eggs on your cannabis seeds, which will hatch into larvae that will feed on your seeds. They can also leave behind silk threads that can cause mold and spoilage.
Ants: Ants are small but mighty insects that can form large colonies and invade your storage area. They can carry away your cannabis seeds or eat them on the spot. They can also introduce bacteria and fungi that can harm your seeds.
Beetles: Beetles are hard-shelled insects that can bore holes into your cannabis seeds and eat them from the inside. They can also spread diseases and parasites that can affect your plants later on.

To Prevent Insects and Pests From Infesting Your Cannabis Seeds, You Should Follow These Tips:

Store your cannabis seeds in a secure place that is out of reach of rodents and other animals. You can use lockable cabinets, or safes to protect your seeds from unwanted visitors.
Keep your cannabis seeds away from other plants or food sources. You can use a separate cabinet, closet, or drawer to store your seeds and make sure it is clean and pest-free.
Keep your storage area clean and tidy. Remove any food scraps, crumbs, or spills that could attract insects and pests. Vacuum or sweep regularly to eliminate any dust or debris that could harbor insects or eggs.
Inspect your cannabis seeds regularly for any signs of damage or infestation. Look for holes, cracks, discoloration, mold, webs, eggs, larvae, or insects on your seeds. If you find any of these signs, discard the affected seeds immediately and sanitize the rest of your storage area.
Use natural repellents or pesticides to deter insects and pests from entering your storage area. You can use essential oils, spices, herbs, or diatomaceous earth to create a barrier or a scent that insects and pests will avoid. However, be careful not to apply these substances directly on your cannabis seeds, as they may affect their germination or growth.

Tips For Germinating Old Cannabis Seeds

If you have some old cannabis seeds that you want to germinate, here are some tips that can increase your chances of success:

Soak your cannabis seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them. This can help to soften their shell and activate their metabolism.
Add some hydrogen peroxide or fulvic acid to the water. This can help to prevent mold and fungus from growing on your cannabis seeds and boost their germination rate.
Use a heating mat or a warm place to keep your cannabis seeds at a constant temperature of around 25°C (77°F). This can help to speed up their germination process and prevent them from going dormant.
Use a humid dome or a plastic bag to keep your cannabis seeds at a high humidity level of around 70%. This can help to prevent them from drying out and losing their vitality.
Use a magnifying glass or a microscope to check for signs of life on your cannabis seeds. You should look for a tiny white root emerging from the tip of the seed. This is called the radicle and it is the first sign of germination.
Be patient and gentle with your cannabis seeds. Old cannabis seeds may take longer to germinate than fresh ones, so don’t give up too soon. Also, avoid touching or moving your cannabis seeds once they start to sprout, as this can damage their delicate root system.

Bottom Line

Long-term storage is possible if you follow some simple guidelines and precautions. You need to keep your cannabis seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place, using light-proof and airtight containers that can preserve their quality and viability.

You also need to check your cannabis seeds before planting them, using visual inspection, float test, or germination test methods. By doing so, you can ensure that your cannabis seeds will sprout successfully and produce healthy plants. Happy growing!