Damaged seeds that are stored will not have the viability of healthy seeds -- cracks and broken seeds allow moisture to infiltrate the interior as pathogens and rot set in. If you have grass seeds that are sealed into a package, they cannot exchange moisture with the surrounding air.
With an optimum 13 percent internal moisture level, sealed seeds simply exchange air within their container -- no new moisture is introduced, so humidity levels remain low, with high viability over the years.
Bagged seeds tend to have some air exchange with the outside environment. For example, a leaky pipe inside your storage area creates a humid atmosphere, thereby compromising the viability of the stored grass seeds. However, even seeds stored within an unopened bag still feel the humidity effects slowly through tiny perforations and eventually lose their ability to sprout.
According to Jonathan Green , grass seeds eventually grow too old to remain viable. You can expect your seed to germinate at this rate when used within the first year post-packaging. And what about that bag of grass seed you inherited when your neighbors moved?
According to the lawn-leader Scotts , grass seed can be stored for two to three years, that is if stored properly. However, even in ideal environments, the germination rate tends to decrease after storage. You should expect the initial germination rate to decrease by 10 to 20 percent for each subsequent year of storage. As the rate decreases, more seeds are required during sowing to fill the planting area.
If the seeds were placed into sealed containers immediately after harvesting, they will enjoy longer viability. Bagged seeds, on the other hand, tend to more quickly succumb to the negative effects of humidity.
Excess moisture from rain and humidity increases the chances of fungal infection, molding, and premature sprouting. There is no harm in trying to use some old grass seed for top seeding or reseeding, but you should expect there to be a lower germination rate than you would enjoy with fresh turfgrass seed. A box or bag of grass seed that has been stored in very warm conditions, or open to humid summer air, will not hold its viability very well.
For the future, your new grass seed will keep best if you store it in a tightly sealed plastic bag or container so it cannot absorb moisture. You can extend its viability by keeping it out of a hot garage or shed and storing it indoors where it is cool.
The cooler the storage temperature and the dryer the relative humidity RH , the longer your seeds will remain viable. Seeds stored in a sealed container in a refrigerator usually enjoy the best longevity. If this isn't practical, seek out the coolest location in your home. Stored with this kind of care, your grass seed may remain viable for as long as five years. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Get instant access to all of our premium pasture seed products by entering your zip code into our exclusive Seed Selector!
How to Store Leftover Grass Seed. Where to Store Grass Seed Next, place the seed in a cool dry area that has some air circulation. How Long Will it Last? Read More Feb 12, By: Skylar Christensen. Related Articles. Try it now!
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