Planting season is here. Vegetable or flower seed will be purchased in great amounts and, in many cases, some seeds will be left over. These can be used at a later time - how much later depending on how well you store them.
For best results, store seeds in moisture-proof containers such as ziplock bags, glass jars and 35mm film canisters. Before sealing, add a packet of desiccant; it will help remove moisture.
Be sure to label your containers with the seed description and date. They will be good for years when stored this way.
This method will also work on your "home grown" seeds if you dry them properly before storing.
Rosemary Moyers, Smith County Master Gardener
Saving flower and vegetable seeds was done routinely not too many years ago. Sharing seeds with friends and neighbors was both helpful and enjoyable. Seeds are expensive and, with the exception of hybrid plants, can still be saved today. If properly gathered and stored, these seeds will produce beautiful flowers or delicious, nutritious vegetables. Saving seeds also helps to preserve some heirloom strains that are no longer commercially available.
After the flowers fade and the seedpods dry, break them off and place the seed heads on newspaper in a tray. As they continue to dry and the seeds begin to fall, they can be stored in film canisters or other small containers. Be sure to label and store in a cool, dry place. When it is time to plant, you will have an inexpensive start to yet another year of gardening pleasure. And this joy of gardening can go on indefinitely as you plant again, save again, and share with those around you.
Lynda Minatrea, Smith County Master Gardener
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