The thicker grass of a lawn depends on the quality of grass seeds; properly stored grass seeds remain viable for longer. Many home gardeners ask how to store grass seed properly to keep them viable. The answer is that you can keep your grass seeds fresh by storing them properly in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag and keeping them in a cool and dry place.
It is important to also know how to check the viability of grass seeds as well as for how long they can be stored. This guide explores the ideal conditions along with the tips and tricks for storing grass seeds. So, read the complete guide and be an expert gardener!
How to Store Grass Seed
Before you start storing your grass seeds make sure that it is placed in proper packaging; permeable packaging such as a burlap bag or a woven sack is ideal. Because these packaging are made of breathable material that will improve the airflow and prevent the chances of molding. However, unopened original packaging of grass seeds also keeps them safe.
Where Can You Store Your Seeds in Winter
Not other weathers give a tough time in the storage of grass seeds except winter, because of the cold temperature, short days, lack of sunlight, and wet weather. However, winters also do not matter if you know the ideal place and atmosphere to store grass seeds during the winter months. Some of the main factors to consider include:
1. Suitable Temperature
It is one of the most important things to consider while storing seeds in winter. Grass seeds remain potent when stored in cool and dry temperatures usually between 32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is a little higher, results in grass seed starts to germinate. Whereas, in case of lower or colder temperatures, your seeds get colder.
2. Humidity
A humid environment is a curse for the viability of grass seeds; that is why a cool and dry place is highly recommended for grass seeds. So, it’s best if you can place them in a refrigerator, a cellar, a basement, or a cool dry closet. While storing in the refrigerator, ensure they are placed in an airtight container and stored away from foods with strong odors.
3. Moisture
In the presence of moisture, the growth of seeds will be highly affected in a negative way. Always place them in a sealed plastic bag or in an airtight container to keep them safe from moisture.
No matter where you store your seeds in winter, check your seeds regularly and discard any that show signs of mold or rot. Storing your seeds in the right conditions in winter can help ensure that you have healthy, viable seeds come spring.
How Long Can Grass Seed Be Stored
The life span of grass seeds is not shorter and about 2 to 5 years in fact it increases in the presence of ideal storage conditions. However, do not keep them for a longer time more than 3 years as their viability may be reduced by about 20 % with each passing year.
How to Check If Seeds Are Viable or Not
The overall life period of seeds also depends on their species. It means that some seeds have longer life as compared to some with shorter ones. But if you keep them in a suitable situation, their lifespan increases to some extent.
If you know how to store seeds properly, you can increase their shell life to a large extent. However, when they are stored, do not use them quickly instead first check their viability. You can check the viability of grass seeds with the help of the following methods:
1. The Water Test
Take a container or any vessel, and fill it with water; now put some seeds in it and soak them for some time. They will either sink inside the water or float. If the seeds sink, it means they are viable and healthy. But, if the seeds float, they are not viable, and their chances of sprouting are zero.
2. The Germination Test
This is another effective method to check the potency of your stored grass seeds. Take a damp paper towel or cloth and place a few seeds on it; after that keep it in a warmer place. After a few days check how many seeds sprout or germinate. This will be an indication that your seeds are viable or not.
3. Check the Color and Texture
Unviable seeds will often look different from viable ones, so it’s essential to look closely at them. Viable seeds should be firm and plump, with a uniform color. Unviable seeds may be discolored, shriveled, or soft to the touch.
Conclusion
Grass seeds if not stored in a suitable situation go unviable. But if you keep them in ideal conditions, not only they will stay viable but also their lifespan increase. We have discussed the complete information about where you can store your seeds and what factors will affect the storage of your seeds above. There are several methods of testing the viability of the seeds in this article. So, follow them and keep your grass seeds fresh for longer.
FAQs
1. Which Is the Best Container to Store Grass Seeds?
Always choose a container made up of plastic or metal bin. In such containers, moisture won’t enter and your seeds remain safe.
2. Is It OK to Freeze Grass Seeds?
It depends on the species of the grass seeds, few varieties can survive freezing however others don’t. So first confirm the species of the relevant grass seeds then freeze.
3. Can the Grass Seeds Germinate Easily After Freezing?
When you want to germinate your seeds, take them out of the freezer at least 48 hours before the time of germination. This will give the seeds some time to stratify and germinate easily.