Storing seeds properly is crucial for maintaining viability and ensuring successful germination when it’s time to plant them. For gardeners and seed savers, finding the right storage method can make all the difference.
Ziploc bags are a popular choice for seed storage thanks to their airtight seal and lightweight, compact design. But how well do they actually work? Here’s a closer look at using Ziploc bags to store seeds.
The Benefits of Storing Seeds in Ziploc Bags
There are a few key advantages to using Ziploc bags for seed storage:
- Airtight seal – Ziploc bags can keep moisture and air out when sealed correctly. This helps prevent mold growth and seed deterioration.
- Compact – They don’t take up much space, allowing you to store many bags in a small area.
- Portable – It’s easy to organize and move Ziploc bags around since they’re lightweight.
- Reusable – The same bags can be reused repeatedly for seed storage from year-to-year.
- Affordable – Ziploc bags are an inexpensive storage option readily available at most grocery stores.
- Clear viewing – The transparency of Ziploc bags allows you to easily identify contents.
For gardeners with limited space or those who like to keep their seed collection portable, Ziploc bags can provide a convenient storage solution.
Potential Drawbacks of Storing Seeds in Ziploc Bags
However, there are some potential downsides to using Ziploc bags for seed saving:
- Not fully airtight – Ziploc bags can allow some air exchange, especially over time as seals weaken. This means moisture and air can still reach stored seeds.
- Thinner plastic – Standard Ziploc bags have thin plastic that could be prone to rips or tears over time.
- Limited protection – There is no padding or structure to protect seeds from being crushed if bags are squeezed or stacked.
- Static – The plastic material can lead to static building up which attracts dust and debris to stick to the bag.
- Fogging – Temperature fluctuations can cause condensation to build up inside the bag.
- Chemical exposure – Plastic chemicals could potentially leach into seeds, especially over extended periods of time.
For these reasons, Ziploc bags may not be the best solution for long-term storage spanning several years. The seals can weaken over time, compromising the initial air tightness. And seeds need fairly stable, cool conditions for such long-term storage. But for short-term use, Ziploc bags can be a good option.
Best Practices for Storing Seeds in Ziploc Bags
If you do choose to use Ziploc bags for your seed storage needs, follow these tips to get the best results:
- Use high quality bags – Opt for thicker, durable freezer bags instead of regular Ziplocs.
- Seal completely – Press out excess air and run your fingers along the seal to ensure it’s thoroughly closed.
- Label – Identify contents using a permanent marker on the outside of each bag.
- Limit exposure – Minimize how often bags are opened to maintain air tightness.
- Avoid sunlight – Store seed bags away from light sources which can damage seeds over time.
- Control temperature – Keep bags somewhere cool, dry and consistent to prevent mold growth.
- Use desiccant – Add silica gel packs to each bag to absorb excess moisture.
- Layer bags – Place individual seed bags inside larger zipped bags to create extra protection.
Taking the time to properly seal, label and store your Ziploc bags will help your seeds last as long as possible.
Recommended Ziploc Bag Storage Timelines
How long seeds can be viably stored in Ziploc bags depends on the seed type. Here are some general guidelines:
| Seed Type | Ziploc Bag Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Beans | 3 years |
| Corn | 1-2 years |
| Cucumbers | 5 years |
| Lettuce | 5 years |
| Melons | 5 years |
| Peas | 3 years |
| Peppers | 4 years |
| Squash | 5 years |
| Tomatoes | 4 years |
On the shorter end, corn and beans typically only last 1-3 years in Ziplocs before germination rates start dropping. While longer-lived seeds like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and lettuce can still germinate decently after 4-5 years in bag storage.
But for any seed, the cooler the storage temperature the better. Storing bags in the refrigerator (not freezer) can extend viability by a year or two compared to room temperature storage. Just be sure to allow any condensation that forms to dissipate before opening refrigerated seed bags.
Alternatives to Storing Seeds in Ziploc Bags
While Ziploc bags can work for seed saving in a pinch, you may want to consider other storage containers that offer more protection for your valuable seeds. Some options include:
Glass Jars
Glass provides an impermeable barrier to air and moisture. Mason jars are a popular choice, allowing you to vacuum seal lids for added protection. The rigid structure also protects seeds from being crushed. Glass jars keep seeds usable for up to twice as long as Ziploc bag storage.
Mylar Bags
Space age-looking mylar bags create an excellent long-term seed barrier. The thick, reflective material blocks light, prevents gas exchange, and keeps moisture out when sealed correctly. They also prevent static build up. Many seed savers use mylar bags to store seeds for 5 years or longer.
Vacuum Sealed Bags
Using a vacuum sealer on plastic bags removes nearly all the air surrounding seeds, depriving potential mold spores of oxygen. This creates a very oxygen and moisture-free environment for excellent seed preservation. But you’ll need the specialized (and rather pricey) equipment to vacuum seal the bags yourself.
Moisture-Proof Containers
Look for rigid plastic containers designed to be water, air and light proof, like tackle boxes used by fisherman. Containers that snap or seal shut are best to keep your seed stash protected and organized. Avoid thin plasticware or cardboard that allow gas and moisture exchange.
Seed Envelopes
For gardeners planning to use seeds in the near future, envelopes made specifically for seed storage can work well short-term. Opt for multiple layers or foil-lined envelopes for better moisture protection. Label envelopes clearly and keep in cool, dark spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do seeds last in Ziploc bags?
Most seeds remain viable for 1-5 years when stored in Ziploc bags, depending on seed type. Longer storage life is possible if conditions are cool, consistent, dark and seeds stay completely dry.
Do Ziploc bags keep seeds dry?
When completely sealed, Ziploc bags can keep seeds dry enough for short-term storage of 1-2 years. But the plastic is permeable over time so moisture can eventually seep in. Extra desiccant packs help maintain dryness.
Can you freeze seeds in Ziploc bags?
Seeds can be frozen in Ziploc bags for very long-term storage. But the moisture and temperature fluctuations of home freezers cause viability loss. For freezing seeds, moisture-proof rigid containers work better.
What should you not store in Ziploc bags?
Avoid storing items in Ziploc bags long-term that are sensitive to moisture, air exposure, light, temperature fluctuations or physical damage from bag compression. This includes seeds for germination over 2+ years, important documents, photos and delicate items.
Do you have to seal Ziploc bags for seed storage?
Yes, sealing Ziploc bags thoroughly is a must for proper seed storage. An incomplete seal allows air and moisture exchange which reduces seed viability over time. Press out air, run fingers along closure and consider taping for long-term storage.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, seeds really just need to stay dry, cool, and pest-free in order to maintain viability. For short durations under 2-3 years, Ziploc bags can provide decent seed storage with proper sealing and conditions. Their lightweight portability also makes Ziploc bags very convenient. But for longer term seed saving goals, a more specialized container designed specifically for seed preservation is recommended.
The most fool-proof option is an airtight, inflexible, moisture-proof container kept in a cool, dark space. But if Ziploc bags are what you have on hand when seed saving inspiration strikes, they can still get the job done in a pinch. Just be sure to take steps to get the longest storage life possible from bag storage until you can transfer seeds to a more durable home.
