Long Term Storage of Vegetable Seed

Vegetable seed can often be stored for up to ten years if dried to less than eight percent (8%) moisture content. This can be done by drying seed at 100 o F (38 oC) for six hours. This temperature can often be obtained by spreading the seed out in direct sunlight; however, since sunlight is harsh and easly can exceed this temperature, drying in the shade on a hot day is the preferred method.

A microwave oven never should be used for drying seed. A conventional oven may be used if the door remains open and the temperature does not exceed 100F (38C).

After drying, the seed can be packaged in moisture-proof containers and stored in a refrigerator at about 42F (6C). Specific seeds have specific storage temperature requirements; 42F covers most seeds. A moisture-proof container is one that could store seed safely while submerged in water.

Placed on the Internet January 28, 1997; Updated December 30, 2009