How Long Do Marijuana Seeds Last? Ways to Store Them

Marijuana seeds are similar to other plant seeds because they have a waxy coating over the embryonic tissue. Genetics of the strain may have a little impact on the cannabis seed’s shelf life, but storage conditions have a far bigger impact. Although higher-quality seeds may be more durable, improper storage can shorten their shelf life. So, how long do marijuana seeds last with proper seed storage?

The simple answer is about five years. However, it takes a few more measures to ensure the long-term survival of the seed if you want to preserve it for a longer time. Keep reading to learn more about the marijuana seed and long-term storage tips to ensure they remain viable.

How Long Do Marijuana Seeds Last?

How long marijuana seeds last before going bad is a topic of much discussion. Some claim they can keep for years if maintained in the proper circumstances, while others dispute this and claim they must be used within six to twelve months after packaging.

The most significant of the many diverse factors that affect the lifetime of cannabis seeds is preservation.

When it comes to storage, if you bought your seeds from a seed bank and they came in their packaging, you may keep them there in a dark, dry area; seed banks often advise planting within the year.

Therefore, the care you give them will determine how long cannabis seeds can survive. Marijuana seeds survive for a very long time if you are extremely cautious.

What Factors Affect Marijuana Seeds Longevity?

1. Moisture

Moisture also signals the start of germination. Furthermore, rotting may occur in a damp atmosphere. Ideally, you should preserve your seeds in a dry atmosphere with a relative humidity of 8% to 10%.

2. Oxygen

The marijuana seeds tend to survive considerably longer when put in a vacuum-sealed container. Even if the usual atmosphere of the earth will keep them safe for a very long time, a vacuum is preferable.

Although they will have access to oxygen, they won’t always have access to clean air. Lack of fresh air not only prevents germination but also makes it more challenging for pests to grow.

3. Light

Any container you choose to store your seeds must be completely light-proof. If you’ve ever attempted to germinate cannabis seeds, you are aware of the significance of light in determining whether a seed will grow or not.

Your seeds may become too weak to germinate if they are exposed to light for an extended period, and even if they do, they may have difficulty getting started.

4. Heat

Temperature is the primary determinant of how long marijuana seeds last. Therefore, the ideal temperature for your storage location should be about 38 degrees Fahrenheit, with 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) being the absolute maximum.

Your marijuana seeds will last the longest if you store them in a separate refrigerator or a location in the rear. The temperature is changed every time you open the refrigerator, which over time may be detrimental to the seeds.

5. Humidity Level

Another vital factor that might affect the success percentage of your seeds is humidity. Keep relative humidity low in their container since relative humidity is basically what causes seeds to germinate. This certainly depends on your local environment, as some regions experience very high humidity levels while others are rather dry.

Cannabis seeds need an RH of 40 to 60 percent to sprout; any humidity over that will drown and destroy the seeds.

However, humidity levels between 9 and 20 percent may also result in various problems, including insects, fungus, and even seed perspiration due to extreme heat. Therefore, the Relative Humidity(RH) is 20 to 30 percent, the best humidity level for storing seeds.

Best Practices for Storing Your Marijuana Seed

• Storing seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place can help maintain them for a long time.
• Using a vacuum seal or an airtight container will ensure they survive longer. Ensure there are no pores.
• If you can’t get a vacuum-sealed container, you can just put them in a dark paper envelope. While the vacuum is ideal, it is not a must.
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• Consider putting the container with the seeds in a mason jar made of glass to ensure it is completely dark inside.
• To achieve lower humidity, add some desiccant such as silica gel packs.
• Place the mason jar in the fridge. To avoid the temperature and humidity changes, it is ideal to use a refrigerator that is not used frequently.

What is the Recommended Place for Storing Marijuana Seeds?

1. Fridge

The ideal solution is to keep them in refrigerators, which you should keep between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius and 20 and 30 percent relative humidity. You should naturally shield them from light. The crisper is an excellent pick for the ideal location in your refrigerator since it is a bit warmer there than the remainder of the unit.

2. Freezer

One of the most well-liked places to store your quality seeds is a typical freezer that has minimal temperature swings, dark and roughly -15 °F.

However, you run the trouble of the seeds you bought being frozen. The seeds draw moisture as they defrost. Refreezing them results in crystallization, which kills the seeds.

3. Basement

A basement used to store seeds should be cool and dark. When it comes to moisture management, professionals recommend putting the seed in a closed container with some uncooked rice to absorb any moisture but remember to change the rice out often) A silica bag made of food-grade material will also work well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Marijuana Seeds

1. Will cracked marijuana seeds still germinate?

No. It cannot germinate because once the genetic material inside the seed is made visible, it loses its ability to do so. As a result, the seeds must be handled with extreme care to prevent crushing or injury, including placing them in proper containers. As long as they are well-protected, cannabis seeds may survive extended periods in storage.

2. Do marijuana seeds go bad?

The embryonic shoot, stem, and root found within are shielded by a waxy outer shell known as the seed coat and are fed by a nutrient-rich oil around them. Your seed may still develop into a cannabis plant if the shell is intact and the plant inside doesn’t dry out or suffer any harm.

3. How do you determine whether the seeds are viable?

The seeds are still usable if they have a dark color, such as dark brown, grey, or black, indicating that the outer shell is intact. The seeds should have a glossy, waxy covering, indicating that they can still retain moisture. The seed is ok if the outer shell is undamaged since healthy weed seeds don’t have cracks or holes.