Content
- Only optimally stored seeds retain full germination capacity
- Seeds are not indefinitely germinable
- Best before date
- Optimum storage conditions
- Tips
- Collect and store seeds yourself
- Label seed container
- Test germination
Seeds should be stored air-tight and light-tight packed
Only optimally stored seeds retain full germination capacity
A seed bag often contains more seeds than needed for sowing. Throwing away the rest is too bad. How can we keep them safely until next year? And maybe even longer?
Seeds are not indefinitely germinable
Seeds are so small and yet so valuable: from them new life develops. That's why they are equipped with everything needed for a successful start. But these reserves are reduced over time and germination decreases. Various influences at the storage location can even accelerate this process.
Best before date
In their characteristics, seeds are as individual as the plants that sprout from them. Some are characterized by years of germination, while others may only be kept for one season.
The best-before date is stamped on almost every seed bag, but this is not an obligation. On this date is also not reliable, because the storage conditions determine the germination significantly.
Optimum storage conditions
The species-related germination is only maintained if you keep the dry seeds optimally:
Tips
If you have the option, store the seed in a vacuum-sealed bag and place it in a dark can.
Collect and store seeds yourself
Whether flowers or vegetables, almost all form plenty of seeds at the end of the season. Collecting makes some work, but the seed is free. But seeds that come from your own garden must meet certain requirements, so that the storage is worthwhile:
Label seed container
Keep the seeds in their original packaging so that you can assign them at any time and clearly. If you have collected the seeds yourself, they should label the storage containers with the plant name and date accordingly. Also helpful is the note about the type-typical germination period.
Test germination
Even the best storage conditions are no guarantee that new plants emerge from the seeds. Since the seed germination is usually unseen, a small test helps. For this, some seeds are sprinkled on damp kitchen paper and after a few days the result is examined. If only part of the seeds have germinated, new seeds must be purchased or sown more densely.