I have some extra cannabis seeds that I’d like to keep for later use, but I’m not sure how long they will remain viable. What is the longest amount of time I can store my seeds and still expect them to germinate?
One answer “How long can you store cannabis seeds?”
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Whether you’re a seasoned grower or have recently been gifted some cannabis seeds, the question of viability over time is a common one. As a recreational user or a professional cultivator, you need to know that the cannabis seeds you have in storage will still be usable in the future. But just how long can you store cannabis seeds and still expect them to germinate?
Well, the answer can vary and it depends on the environment in which you are storing them, as well as the quality of the seeds. Generally speaking, cannabis seeds can remain viable anywhere from six months to a couple of years, with a couple of exceptions, of course.
When it comes to storing cannabis seeds, it’s all about creating an environment that’s as close to their natural state as possible. The best way to keep your seeds viable is to store them in airtight containers at a temperature of around 40-50°F (4.4-10°C). This will help to keep them at a moisture level of about 8-10%, which is the ideal for seed viability. It’s important to note, however, that real-world temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and season, so it’s important to keep an eye on your storage temperature. Additionally, keeping your cannabis seeds in an area that doesn’t see too much direct sunlight is also important for keeping them viable.
That being said, storing your seeds in an optimal environment isn’t the only thing that affects their viability. The quality of the seed is often the biggest factor in how viable it will remain over time. Isn’t that true of all fruits and veggies? The fresher the seed, the better. If you are purchasing your cannabis seeds from a reputable seed bank, they should be viable for 6-12 months, depending on the strain and how they were kept prior to your purchase.
It’s also important to note that some cannabis genetics are simply more hardy than others and will remain viable for longer periods of time. For example, Sativa-dominant strains generally have a longer shelf life than Indica-dominant strains. Similarly, autoflowering strains have a shorter shelf-life than regular and feminized strains.
Finally, there are some known exceptions to the general storage guidelines listed above. Some industrial hybrid strains, for example, can remain viable for up to 10 years, even at relatively warm temperatures. Additionally, landrace cannabis strains from Africa, India and South America have been known to remain viable for up to 18 months if stored in a cool and dry environment.
As a general rule, though, keeping your cannabis seeds dry, cool and in an airtight container will help maintain their viability for the longest possible amount of time. Keep your seeds in a cool, dark and dry area and you shouldn’t have any problems getting them to germinate when you’re ready to use them.