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Menomonie, WI ([email protected])

There seems to be alot of different opinions on this. From my work experience with high density semiconductors with organic subtrates. I follow this method.
As a general rule, humidity levels within the storage environment should be maintained in the range of 25-35%. The average home during northern-tier winters is exceptionally dry—often dipping into the low teens. Low humidity draws moisture from delicate seed structures and exerts a negative impact on vigor and germination rate. Drying seeds to zero moisture will, of course, destroy them. The rule: once seeds have dried (cured) to the correct moisture level (by weight), unless you have the kind of precisely-controlled storage conditions employed by seed companies like Johnny's Selected Seeds in Albion, Maine, store yours in sealed, air-tight containers like glass jars or doubled Ziploc bags. In the highly variable home or small farm environment, paper envelopes, cloth bags, or cardboard boxes allow for exchange of far too much (or too little) moisture for long-term storage.

What are your Opinions on this. I can tell you this. The myth that a sealed plastic bag attracts moisture is precisely that. A bag that is sealed maintains the same amount moisture.

2/2/2005 3:30:22 PM

Hilpoltstein, Bavaria, Germany

I agree on all you said....
However, I used to put a few baggies of that "Selica Gel" desiccant into the glass jars where I keep my seeds and when I measured the moisture content it was close to zero.
I've not had any problems with germination but maybe the seeds won't stay viable as long as possible...

2/2/2005 3:45:25 PM

Garden

I have mine in a plastic jar style container. The lid fits inside the container, and releasing a plunger on top forces a gasket outward to seal it. Inside are 2 Desiccite packs (which I re-baked just last night)
I wonder if those packs will actually draw moisture from the seeds? Now you have me worried!

2/2/2005 3:47:27 PM

Joliet, IL

i do not know what is the proper way scientifically,
but my house gets incredibly dry in the winter because
i do not have a humidifier. therefore, when i receive
them, they go into 3 zip lock bags and into the freezer.
i have good success with germination so far with this method
so i haven't changed it. hopefully this method will help
keep seeds viable for a longer period of time with
consistent temperature and moisture conditions.

2/2/2005 4:25:09 PM

Omaha, NE (N41-15-42 )

I used to vacuum seal my seeds and put them in the freezer, but then Steve Daletas told us at Niagara last year that he has discussed the issue with various seed companies and they recommend storing them in a refrigerator. So I came home from Niagara and cut open all of the seed packs and now store them in a fridge.

2/3/2005 1:01:16 AM