Seed Storage FAQ
Store seeds cool (50–60°F), dark, and dry. Most seeds last 3–5 years.
Basics
How long do seeds last?
- Beans, peas: 3-4 years
- Tomatoes, peppers: 4-6 years
- Lettuce, kale: 3-5 years
- Carrots, onions: 1-2 years
- Parsley, parsnip: 1-2 years
Where should I store them? Cool, dark, dry place.
What container? Paper envelope for short-term. Glass jar with silica packet for long-term.
Should I refrigerate? Only if seeds are fully dry.
Can I freeze seeds? Only for long-term storage (years). Must be fully dry and sealed.
What to Avoid
- Plastic bags (trap moisture)
- Warm places
- Light
- Humidity
Common Questions
How do I know if seeds are still good? Paper towel test.
Can I store in the packet? Yes, for short-term.
Do silica packets help? Yes.
What if seeds get wet? Dry immediately.
Can I save seeds from my garden? Yes, from open-pollinated varieties.
How do I label seeds? Variety + year.