Is refrigerator storage effective for seeds?

Many gardeners question whether seeds stored in the refrigerator will remain viable longer than seeds stored at room temperature. The answer is entirely based on your methods of seed preparation. Seeds must be prepared in a specific state of condition or development to take advantage of cold storage. I have successfully stored heirloom varieties for decades, and I've done it using refrigerator practice. You can achieve the same results by following basic practices.

Moisture management is the key to dehydrated seed storage. Seed moisture should be 8-10% before refrigeration. To test, bend the seed. If it snaps crisply like dry pasta, it is ready. I lost my first bunch of basil seeds to mold because I failed to do this important step.

Container choice is a critical variable. Glass jars are superior to plastic for long-term storage, and mason jars are superior to plastic boxes for fending off moisture. For example, my tomato seeds remained viable for 7 years in glass and 3 years in plastic. New desiccant packets should be used whenever you first seal the package.

Humid climates require extra caution. I put rice-filled cloth bags in the containers as backup desiccants. I check my jars for condensation droplets once a month. My Seattle garden requires my storage to have double layers of protection compared to my Arizona storage. Additionally, I always allow my seeds to thaw in the refrigerator before planting.

If done correctly, using refrigeration can significantly prolong the life of seeds. Start small this season, with a seed variety. Your future garden will thank you with large harvests in the years to come. My preserved seeds now feed 3 generations of family gardeners. If you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals, then it will work spectacularly.

Read the full article: 5 Essential Tips: How to Store Seeds Properly