All home gardeners create lush thriving lawns and gardens with the help of tiny grass seeds. But have you ever wondered how long does grass seed last? These tiny seeds are powerful enough to transform your barren land into vibrant lush gardens. However, their life expectancy depends on the storage conditions, type, and even grass species.
Few varieties of grass seeds, like those of perennial grasses, can last years if stored properly in excellent, dry conditions. Whereas, annual grasses, have a short shelf life and may lose viability within a year or two. This blog explores all aspects of grass seeds’ life and factors affecting their life or viability. Let’s get started!
How Long Does Grass Seed Remain Stored
A closed bag of seeds may last longer than an opened one. However, the way of storing these bags of seeds significantly impacts their viability. If the bag is closed correctly and stored, it will last up to 5 years. On the other hand, an open bag of seeds only lasts for 18 months. But the question is, how do you know this? According to experts, seeds that can grow in hard zones like ryegrass can last up to five years in the perfect environment for storage.
However, the life of seeds may vary from one species to the other, like Fescue and Bermuda can last up to three years. But remember that the germination process may reduce storage, and you must spread more grass to cover the area to reach the correct germination percentage.
Shelf Life of the Grass Seeds
The grass seed also has a shelf life just like the other natural products. It’s better to use them within 2 to 3 years after purchase. Remember that with time, the germination of your grass seeds is reduced by about 10 to 20% after two years of storage.
Only 1 in 5 seeds can germinate in a 10-year-old bag of grass seeds, which is not good. Hence, try to use them when fresh or in just 2 years of purchase. However, the life of grass seeds also depends on how you store them. Furthermore, another important thing is the storing conditions that you provide to your grass seeds later.
Seed viability
The viability of seed growth is a parameter to measure how many seeds can grow or live and develop into plants under appropriate conditions.
The viability of plant seeds depends on how you store them. 50% of perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and Kentucky Bluegrass can germinate after three to five years of keeping in perfect conditions. At the same time, the Creeping Bent grass seeds can grow after five years or more.
Factors Affecting Seed Viability
The viability of any grass seeds depends on storage conditions. Thus, homeowners need to provide the perfect storage conditions to store grass seeds. The seeds can maintain viability longer if the conditions are cool and dry, which may not be available in typical sheds or garages. Here is the list of factors that can affect the viability of grass seeds:
1. Seed Moisture Level
The ideal internal moisture level of seeds is 10 to 20 percent, and it may also vary from one species to the other. If the moisture of seeds falls below the level, they can absorb humidity to higher levels and die. Seeds rarely lose their moisture level but can easily absorb moisture from their surroundings.
2. Temperature of Storage
The ideal storage temperature for most seeds is under 60 degrees F. However, if the temperature goes above 100 degrees, the viability of seeds may be badly affected.
3. Humidity Levels
If you use open containers or cloth bags for storage, the moisture level of seeds will change. If the surroundings contain humidity, the seeds may absorb humidity, so keep them dry.
However, it is a quick storage process, but it needs more accuracy for later implementation. So, the Advisory Committee IBPGR does not recommend general seed storage. Furthermore, you can check the seed viability through a seed germination test.
Does Grass Seed Go Bad When Expired
It is difficult to tell that the grass seeds go wrong when they expire. Although the bag has an expiry date, it is only a rough estimation. The conditions affect the grass seeds when you store them. However, if you do not want to sow these expired seeds and see any sign of dampness, then don’t use them and throw them away.
Other signs of bad seeds include a change in coloration, change in seed texture, and bad odor, These signs show that you need to provide the right conditions for storage.
Do Expired Seeds Still Grow
The expiry date on the bag will not affect the results you expect from the seeds in some cases. However, if you think the grass seeds have an expiration date, then yes. If you follow the manufacturer’s expiration date, it will not affect the germination of seeds. Some expired seeds may grow, but their vitality and growth rate will be lower.
Most people rely on the products’ expiry date, and it is good to avoid sowing expired seeds. However, these data don’t indicate the freshness of the seeds. This means the expired seeds can grow. However, you cannot expect a healthy harvest from them as from the new ones. But from a safe point of view, you can check the germination with simple tests.
Ways to Store Grass Seed
The storage conditions deeply impact the seed germinating abilities. Most people suggest that the outside garage or shed is best for storing seeds. However, these external conditions are unsuitable due to the heat and humidity exposure.
You can store grass seeds in your refrigerator after putting them in an air-tight container or jar. If it is impossible, keep the seeds stored in air-tight containers in the most excellent place, like the basement or cellar. In short, put the seeds in a place having temperatures that remain 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Effective Grass Seed Storage Tips
Keep the following instructions in mind for the storage of grass seeds:
- Choose a dark and cool storage place and keep them away from sunlight. Avoid a place exposed to humidity, for this an air-conditioned room is good.
- Use air-tight jars and containers to store the grass seeds effectively.
- If the bag is opened, ensure that the air can properly circulate; use breathable bags.
- Keep the bag of seeds away from each other to avoid moisture building.
- A baking soda container inside the grass seeds bag prevents the fungi.
- You can also store an open bag of seeds using the above methods.
- But if you decide to use the old grass seeds stored above 3 years, make sure to sow the lawn heavily so that you can get better results.
- Regularly check the stored seeds for signs of pests or other problems.
How To Check If Grass Seeds Are Okay
You can check if the grass seeds are okay with the use of the following simple steps:
Step 1: Use a paper towel and moisten it with water.
Step 2: Place 5 to 6 seeds in a paper towel. Now, put them in a warm place. You can also put this paper towel on a dryer.
Step 3: After this, wait and watch if these seeds start to sprout.
Testing grass seeds before throwing them out to check whether they can grow on your lawn or not is easy.
Conclusion:
Grass seeds too have an expiry date, but these seeds go bad only depending on the storage conditions. If you want to get the long life of seeds, keep them in a cool and dry place so that the viability of seeds will not be affected. Remember that each year, the rate of germination of grass seeds will be reduced. The seeds in a sealed container and the refrigerator are more viable and full of vigor. However, it may not be practical for most users, so place them in a cool and dry place.
FAQ
1. How long does seed last in a bag?
The seeds last in a bag for up to one year to 3 years. However, it depends if you store them properly in a dry and cool place. They remain alive for up to 3 years in a sealed container or bag however, you will not get the ideal results after sowing them.
2. Will 20-year-old seeds grow?
Yes, the 20-year-old seed can also grow however, they have lost its viability. Seeds stored for many years can germinate under compatible conditions. However, proper treatment may be required for these seeds.
3. Can I store grass seeds over winter?
Yes, you can store grass seeds over winter. There is no problem with it, but make sure the temperature of that place remains below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Place seeds in basements and grass seeds will remain viable for about 18 months. Keep checking the storage box to ensure no fungi or moisture.
4. Does grass seed go bad when frozen?
Most grass seeds remain good when you freeze them, but the conditions may vary from one species to the other. However, most species can withstand short freezing times. If the grass seeds are not at the stage of germination, you can freeze them.
5. Can Grass Seed Freeze?
Yes, you can freeze your grass seeds. It will not affect the growth ability but freeze them for a short period. The seeds will remain idle when you freeze them, which will not affect their ability.