How should seeds be organized within storage systems?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Functional seed stewardship systems can completely overhaul how you organize and manage your collection. Organizing your seeds by crop type, planting season, and/or germination rate can help with everything about preparing to plant your crops. I organize my seed collection using gardening seasons, segregating my seeds into spring, summer, and fall planting windows, which makes seed organization for planting more effective. Using a seasonal approach to organizing your seeds can save you hours when you are extremely busy in your garden.
Seasonal Grouping
- Group cold-hardy peas and spinach in early spring section
- Place heat-loving tomatoes and peppers in summer category
- Include frost-tolerant kale and carrots for fall planting
- Include laminated planting calendars with each group
Visual Identification Systems
- Color-code labels: green for herbs yellow for vegetables
- Use shape-coded stickers for perennial versus annual seeds
- Number systems indicate planting priority levels
- Create quick-reference guides for complex systems
Digital tools are transforming the way we manage seeds. Apps such as Seed to Spoon can take a picture of the seed packet and track when the seeds will expire. Then you can set reminders for when to plant each rotation automatically. I sync my seed database so I can plan my garden from my phone or my computer without having to print and take notes on paper. Digital logs are helpful so that you won't forget about older seeds in your collection.
Optimize your limited square footage by utilizing clever storage systems. Slim photo cases can be placed on any narrow shelf, and magnetic tins can stick to refrigerator doors. Vertical stackable units best utilize wall space. My apartment system puts together drawer units and wall racks to perfection.
Organizing your seeds can start today with simple approaches. You don't have to set up elaborate systems or projects to manage your seeds. Start with simple techniques, such as grouping them seasonally and adding color-coding, and eventually track them digitally as your collection grows. Organizing your seeds will reward you with better gardens and an increase in success next season.
Read the full article: 10 Best Seed Storage Containers
