Many homeowners and landowners wonder how to store grass seed properly; that’s because proper seed storage and handling can significantly extend the life and viability of your seeds. Although we recommend planting your seeds within 1 year of purchase (2 years for wildflowers), under proper conditions, some seeds can remain viable for 10 years – or more.
Storage temperature and seed moisture are the two most important factors in determining how long seeds can be stored. The drier the seeds remain, the longer than can be stored.
Here are a few steps to keep your seeds viable for years to come:
- Cool and Dry Storage: Store seeds in temperatures no greater than 70 F, with a humidity lower than 65%. The ideal temperature range is 35-40 F with a humidity of less than 40%.
- Contained: If your seed packaging has been opened, then store them in an airtight container. This will prevent the elements from getting to your seeds and affecting their viability.
- Labeled: Label your seeds with their species or mix name, variety, and date purchased or collected.
Seed Storage Tips
- Add moisture-absorbing material to your airtight container, such as silica gel packets, newspaper, or dry wood ash.
- Keeping your seeds stored in an airtight container, can avoid disturbance from pests.
Common Seed Storage Mistakes
- Garages & Sheds: Garages and sheds can experience extreme temperature fluctuations, shortening the lifespan of your seeds. If your garage or shed is temperature controlled (many are not), then this can be a great place to store seeds.
- Refrigerator: Refrigerators can keep your seeds in the ideal storage temperature range (35-40 F), but it adds in the element of humidity. To avoid this, you can store seeds in an airtight container in your refrigerator; but if your seeds contain any amount of leftover moisture from the drying process, they will begin to germinate. It’s best to stay away from this method as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can you store grass seed?
How long can you store grass seed?
Although we recommend planting your seeds within 1 year of purchase (2 years for wildflowers), under proper conditions, some seeds can remain viable for 10 years – or more.