Regular Marijuana Seeds

As with many other things related to growing marijuana seeds, there is a debate about the best way to store marijuana seeds, including their longevity.

It is well known that seeds must be stored properly to avoid spoilage from mold or pathogens, and that is in a cool, dark place.

To answer your question, let’s assume that seeds have a shelf life of 2 years from packaging. However, if stored well, they can last up to five or even ten years and retain their germination ability.

So you understand very well that proper storage is the basis for the marijuana seed to retain its quality.

However, as a general rule, it is advisable to grow marijuana seeds within the first two years of purchase.

Factors affecting the shelf life of marijuana seeds

Of course, genetics is an important factor: good seeds last longer than bad ones because, as you can imagine, bad seeds can spoil quickly.

The way they are handled also plays an important role. If the seed shop, you bought them from stores the seeds properly and ships them in a way that protects them from shipping damage, then they will last a long time.

The problem, however, is that these are aspects over which you have no control, with the exception of choosing a quality marijuana seed supplier.

So what’s the best way to store them?

First, let’s look at the main factors affecting marijuana seed longevity.

1. Light

Light is a clear signal for seeds to prepare for germination.

Even if they don’t germinate because the other necessary factors aren’t there, the chemical processes for germination can be triggered, preventing the seeds from germinating later when the time comes.

So we repeat: if you want to ensure that your seeds last as long as possible, store them in a place protected from light.

2. Warmth

High temperatures are also a sign of germination.

It is good to store the seeds in as cool a place as possible without freezing them. You can keep them at room temperature, but to prolong their life they should be stored at a temperature between 6° and 8°C.

Now you might be wondering “can I keep them in the fridge?”.

The answer is yes, as long as the room is used exclusively for storing seeds, to avoid temperature and humidity fluctuations that occur when the door is opened.

That’s why we recommend buying a special mini fridge.

3. Humidity

Moisture is also a signal for germination to begin, not to mention it can lead to rot.

Ideally, seeds should be stored in a dry environment with a relative humidity of 30%.

4. Environmental Fluctuations

Environmental fluctuations are worse than all other factors.

If you keep the seeds in a kitchen drawer at normal room temperature and humidity, they will keep for quite a while. Maybe even for a year or two. However, if humidity, temperature and light conditions are constantly changing, their lifespan will be significantly reduced.

How to make marijuana seeds last longer

Based on the above factors that affect the lifespan of marijuana seeds. We can say that keeping the seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place will help preserve their properties.

But there is more you can do.

If you want to make sure your marijuana seeds last longer, you should first place them in a vacuum-sealed container, although they are usually shipped in special packaging for better storage.

However, if you do decide to open them, prefer a container that is non-porous and that seals completely so air can’t get in. Vacuum packaging is ideal, but not essential. If you don’t have a vacuum sealer, you can also just put them in a dark paper bag.

Place this packet in a glass jar. The packet should already be dark, but it’s a good idea to also wrap the jar to ensure complete darkness inside.

Finally, add some desiccant – eg a packet of silica gel – to ensure low humidity and place the jar in the aforementioned mini-fridge.

If you follow these quick tips, your seeds will remain intact for many years.