How to properly store cannabis seeds?

In order for cannabis seeds to maintain their germination and viability, it is essential that they are stored in the right conditions. Whether you bought your seeds in a store or harvested them yourself, storage rules are equally important. Compliance with the recommendations will allow quality specimens to remain suitable for germination for many years. Below you will learn how to organize the storage of cannabis seeds correctly.

Why it is important to observe the conditions of storage

Every grower, whether a beginner or an experienced cultivator, needs to know how to store cannabis seeds. Seeds are not just plant particles, but full-fledged rudiments of future bushes that can lose their ability to grow if not handled properly. They are extremely sensitive to external factors: light, moisture and temperature. Excessive heat, moisture or light can quickly destroy their structure and reduce the chances of successful germination.

These are the main reasons why you should pay attention to storage:

• If all conditions are met, seeds can keep germinating for more than two years;

• A moist environment promotes the formation of mold, which can completely destroy the material;

• Exposure to light and oxygen accelerates the destruction processes inside the seed;

Optimal storage conditions help to prolong shelf life and preserve genetic properties.

Ideal conditions for storing marijuana seeds

To ensure that the seeds do not lose their qualities, you need to take into account three key parameters: humidity, temperature and light. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Humidity

One of the main enemies of seeds is moisture. Even with a slight increase in relative humidity in the room, it is possible to develop fungi and mold, which cause irreparable damage to seeds. Humidity must be strictly controlled - it is the basis for long-term storage.

Relative humidity level	Effect of moisture on hemp seeds
80 - 100%	Seeds germinate
40 - 60%	Seeds increase respiration and fungi in seed storage become a serious problem
20 - 30%	Short term storage
18 - 20%	Medium term storage
12 - 14%	Long term storage
8 - 9%	Shorter shelf life than seeds stored at slightly higher moisture content

Light

Cannabis seeds should be stored in complete darkness. Even brief exposure to light can negatively affect their structure and trigger undesirable germination processes. If the light is constant, the seed may activate prematurely and lose germination. Therefore, it is extremely important to completely eliminate the exposure of seeds to light during storage.

Temperature regime

Storage temperature also plays a key role in seed preservation. The optimal range is between 6 and 8 °C. It is best to place them in the refrigerator, namely - in the vegetable compartment or another corner with minimal temperature fluctuations.

However, it is important to take into account some nuances:

• The seeds should be in a tightly closed, airtight container to avoid moisture and light.

• Old refrigerators that are prone to freezing can create condensation, which is disastrous for seeds. Excess moisture is one of the main threats.

• Using vacuum packs or zip-lock bags with an airtight closure will help provide the right level of protection.

Once packaged, place the seeds in an opaque container - plastic or glass - to further protect from light inside the refrigerator.

Seed storage: airtight and cold

If you plan to plant for several months, storage in a dark cabinet with a stable temperature regime will do. The main thing is to avoid places where the temperature changes dramatically: for example, do not store seeds in barns, garages or on balconies, especially in regions with daily temperature variations.

For long-term storage, it is important to use moisture-absorbing materials such as silica gel sachets. Together with them, the seeds are placed in a sealed container, which is then sent to the refrigerator. Zip bags are especially convenient because excess air can be removed from them, bringing conditions closer to a vacuum.

Refrigerators with a “No Frost” system are considered the best option for storage - they prevent moisture buildup and provide dry cold, which is much safer for seed storage.

Conclusion

Now you know how to create optimal conditions for storing cannabis seeds. If you follow these simple guidelines, your seeds will remain vigorous and ready to germinate even years later. This approach not only increases the chances of successful cultivation, but also helps you save resources and time.