Knowing how long pot seeds last is clearly beneficial to growers aiming to maximize their crop’s potential. To ensure longevity, it’s important to consider a multitude of factors, but none are more vital than the conditions under which the seeds are preserved.
If you’ve obtained your seeds from a reputable online store like Herbies and they arrive in their original packaging, it’s best to leave them in that wrapping and store them in a cool, dry, and dimly-lit area. This will help ensure they remain ready for planting throughout the year.
At the same time, when the correct conditions are met, pot grains can be impressively durable and have an unexpectedly long lifespan. In this article, we will explore how long pot seeds can remain viable based on their storage environment.
Temperature
This is an important factor in determining the lifespan of cannabis seeds. If kept at cool temperatures (between 55-60° F or 12-15° C), the grains can remain viable for years. When stored at warmer temperatures (above 70° F or 21° C), the lifespan is typically reduced to months.
Storing pot seeds at room temperature, for example, at around 65° F or 18°C, can also work in some cases, although it is not recommended. Overall, keeping them at cooler temperatures, up to around 39° F or 4º C (in the fridge), will help to extend their lifespan.
Humidity
The amount of moisture in the air can significantly influence the viability of your marijuana seeds. Overabundant moisture can prompt them to sprout too early, while low humidity can parch them out. For short-term storage, try to maintain a relative humidity of about 20-30%, whereas, for medium-term storage, the optimal humidity level is 18-20%.
Overall, to ensure the longevity of your grains, it’s crucial to maintain humidity levels between 25% to 55%, particularly if they are tucked away in a dark, sealed container at low temperatures.
If your storage location is particularly damp, such as in a bathroom, make sure to keep tabs on the humidity levels with a hygrometer. You might also consider using a moisture-regulated container, like a Mason jar, to stash your pot seeds, keeping them fresh and lively.
Light
It’s essential to shield cannabis seeds from sunlight since excessive exposure can hasten the aging process, reducing their lifespan. Furthermore, too much light can trigger premature germination, so it’s better to keep them in a dark place.
A good practice for many gardeners is to use an opaque bag, keeping it away from heat and direct sunlight. Alternatively, you can store the seeds in an airtight container like a Mason jar or Tupperware, which can prevent external moisture and light from seeping in.
Final Thoughts
Proper storage can be the key to unlocking the longevity of your pot seeds, allowing them to sprout even after a half-decade or more. Veteran growers have even been known to cultivate a successful crop from a decade-old stash. However, less-than-perfect conditions could bring the once-promising seeds to an early demise.
It’s important to heed the advice and abide by the guidelines on how to store your seeds, which can be found on the website of a trustworthy online shop from where you purchase them. Take, for instance, Herbies, who furnish a wealth of information on the correct method of storing distinct cannabis strains’ seeds.
It’s paramount to make sure you take the proper measures to keep your seeds viable for as long as possible. A vigilant eye on the temperature, moisture, and light conditions of your storage area, coupled with necessary adjustments, will give them the best chance to thrive.
