Storing Seeds

If you don't use all your seeds in one planting, they typically can be stored for later use. The rule for successful seed storage is "clean, cool and dry." It's a good idea to put the seeds in a labeled paper envelope—wildly different plants can have similar-looking seeds! Put the envelope into the container and tightly seal with the lid. To keep the seeds cool, place the container in your refrigerator. Most seeds stored this way will keep for a year or more.

UF/IFAS Publications

• Save Seed for Next Year's Plants (PDF)
• Seed Propagation of Woody Ornamentals
• Seeding the Garden

Also on Gardening in a Minute

• Other Uses for Seeds
• Saving Seeds from Herbs
• Saving Seeds from Perennials
• Starting Vegetable Gardens from Seed

Other Sites

• Collecting and Storing Seeds from Your Garden--Oregon State University Extension Service
• Northern Gardening Tips: Know Which Seed to Save for Next Season--eXtension.org
• Seed Collecting and Storing--University of Illinois Extension (PDF)
• Storing Vegetable and Flower Seeds--Colorado State University Extension