freezing seeds?

Question

i'm wondering if there is anyway to freeze seeds for a few yrs or just put them into a jar would it last for a few yrs? if there is a way to hibernate them so to speak, will it reduce the count of the reproduction of the seeds? or is there a better way?

Answer 1

The international seed bank in Norway freezes seeds to ward off future plant catastrophes. Take a peek at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_Seed_Bank .

Freezing is an ancient method of tricking seeds into germinating out of season. They are frozen, then thawed and warmed in a greenhouse.

I would avoid glass in the freezer, try a seal-a-meal bag with all the air sucked out. Wrap the seeds in a damp but not wet towel or newspaper and freeze.

Answer 2

I put my seeds in either glass or plastic jars with good tight fitting lids, ziplock bags and cans that have good sealing plastic lids. Coffee cans work well. Keep them in a cool area that will not freeze.

I have used seeds stored in glass jars for 15+ years! Not all have germinated, but I was surprised at how many did!

Answer 3

Freezing will kill any annual seeds. Just put them in an envelope with a few kernels? of uncooked rice. Then store them in a cool, dry, dark place. Germination rate will decrease over time, but some will still sprout.