Cannabis seeds are the foundation of any successful cannabis grow. They hold the potential for a bountiful harvest, but only if they are properly stored. Whether you are a seasoned grower or just starting out, it’s important to know how to store your cannabis seeds to ensure their viability and quality.
In this guide, we will discuss the dos and don’ts on how to store cannabis seeds. We will cover the basics of seed storage, as well as more advanced techniques for long-term preservation.
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Dos in Proper Storing Cannabis Seeds
There are a few key things you should keep in mind when storing cannabis seeds to ensure their longevity and viability. Here are some dos for proper seed storage:
Keep Seeds Away from Light
One of the most important things to remember when storing cannabis seeds is to keep them away from light. Light can degrade the quality of your seeds and reduce their viability.
This is because exposure to light can cause a process called photooxidation. This damages the cells and tissues of the seed. To prevent this, make sure your storage container or area is dark and does not receive any direct light.
It’s also important to keep in mind that UV light can be especially damaging to cannabis seeds. This type of light is present in sunlight, but also in indoor grow lights. If you plan on storing your seeds near a grow room or other area with artificial lights, make sure they are shielded from the UV rays.
Maintain Consistent Temperature and Humidity Levels
In addition to keeping your seeds away from light, it’s equally important to maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels when storing cannabis seeds. Fluctuations in these factors can impact the viability and quality of your seeds.
Ideally, you want to store your cannabis seeds at a temperature between 40-45°F (4-7°C) and a relative humidity level of 5-8%. This will help prevent mold and other microorganisms from growing on your seeds, as well as slow down the aging process. One way to achieve these conditions is by using a refrigerator or freezer, which allows for precise temperature control.
Store on a Cannabis Seed Bank
Another proper storage of cannabis seeds is to use a cannabis seed bank. These specialized storage facilities are designed specifically for preserving the viability and quality of cannabis seeds. They offer controlled temperature, humidity, and light levels, as well as secure storage to protect against pests and other potential threats.
Using a cannabis seed bank can also provide peace of mind for growers who want to ensure the genetic integrity of their plants. Many seed banks offer a wide variety of strains, giving growers access to exclusive genetics without having to worry about preserving and storing their own seeds.
Label and Date Your Seeds
In addition to the above techniques, it’s important to label and date your cannabis seeds when storing them. This will help you keep track of which strains you have, as well as how long they have been in storage. It’s also a good idea to include any other relevant information, such as the breeder or source of the seeds.
Labeling and dating your seeds can also help you rotate your seed stock, ensuring that you use the oldest seeds first and preventing any from going past their expiration date. It’s recommended to use your stored seeds within 2-3 years for optimal viability.
Don’ts in Proper Storing Cannabis Seeds
Now that we’ve covered some dos for proper seed storage, here are some don’ts to keep in mind:
Don’t Open Seed Containers or Bags Frequently
One key mistake to avoid when storing cannabis seeds is frequently opening and closing the storage container or bag. Every time you open the container, you expose the seeds to light, oxygen, and changes in temperature and humidity. This can have a negative impact on their viability and quality.
To prevent this, make sure to only open your seed containers or bags when necessary. This may mean planning ahead and taking out all the seeds you need for a specific grow or project, rather than constantly opening and closing the container. By minimizing exposure to external factors, you can help preserve the integrity of your seeds.
Freezing Seeds Directly
Avoid freezing your seeds directly. While storing cannabis seeds in a freezer can be an effective method for long-term preservation, it’s important to note that you should never freeze them directly. This is because the sudden temperature change can shock and damage the seeds, reducing their viability.
If you plan on using a freezer for seed storage, make sure to gradually acclimate the seeds by first placing them in a sealed container at room temperature for 24 hours before transferring them to the freezer. When removing seeds from the freezer, allow them to thaw completely before opening the container and exposing them to warmer temperatures.
Don’t Store Seeds Near Electronics
Electronics such as TVs, computers, and phones emit electromagnetic fields that can interfere with the viability of cannabis seeds. It’s best to avoid storing your seeds near these devices to prevent any potential damage.
In addition, electronics can also generate heat which can affect the temperature and humidity levels in your storage area. As mentioned before, it’s important to keep these factors consistent for optimal seed storage.
Storing seeds near electronics can also increase the risk of exposure to light. This can be damaging to seeds. Therefore, it’s best to keep your stored seeds in a separate area away from any electronics.
Explore How to Store Cannabis Seeds
On how to store cannabis seeds is essential for maintaining their viability and ensuring successful germination. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your seeds remain healthy and produce high-quality plants.
Remember to always label and date your seeds, keep them away from light, maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels, and store them in airtight containers.
With these tips in mind, you can be confident in your ability to store cannabis seeds like a pro. So go ahead and start storing your seeds properly to create the best conditions for successful growth and yield of your cannabis plants. Happy growing!
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