How to store grass seed over the winter to use in spring

Did you know that the viability of grass seeds depends greatly on the storage conditions? When seeds aren’t stored properly, they will fail to germinate when your turf is ready for spring lawn care services. Seeds that are stored well can be used the following spring in Calgary with your seasonal lawn maintenance.

Generally speaking, seeds that are stored in cool, dry conditions over the winter maintain viability the longest. If you’re storing grass seeds to use in spring, be sure to follow this guide to maintain their viability.

Where to store your seeds over the winter

Often, homeowners will store their seeds in a garage or a shed without knowing that this can expose seeds to excess humidity or freezing temperatures. The ideal storage place for your seeds is in an air-tight container placed in a basement or any cool, dry area in your home.

Seed viability relies on a few different factors, including:

Temperature – The ideal temperature for most seeds is above freezing but under 15 degrees Celsius. In Calgary, where we experience cold winters and hot summers, a garage or shed may not allow seeds to hold their viability for very long.

Moisture – Too much moisture negatively affects seed viability. Always store your seeds in an air-tight container or plastic bag so that they cannot absorb moisture. In general, the cooler and dryer the storage area is, the longer your seeds will remain viable.

Humidity – Seed viability declines rapidly when exposed to humid climates, further highlighting the importance of storing seeds in an area that is cool and dry.

How to know if your seeds are still viable

Some seeds can last for several years, while others have a short life. When properly stored, the seed’s shelf life can be extended. Come springtime, you can do a couple of tests to check if your seeds are still viable.

The water test

Put your seed in a container of water and let sit for 15 minutes. If the seeds are viable, they will sink. Seeds that float will likely not sprout.

The germination test

We recommend waiting to do this test closer to the time of planting, so any seeds that sprout can be placed into your garden immediately. To do the germination test:

Take your seeds and place them in a row on top of a damp paper towel.
Fold the paper towel and seal it in a zip-up plastic bag.
Place this plastic bag in a warm location away from direct sunlight, ideally on top of the refrigerator.
Check once a day and carefully mist the paper towel with water if it requires more moisture, being careful not to overwater.

Your seeds should sprout in a few days, depending on the specific germination time of your seed species.

How long does grass seed viability last?

Grass seeds last between 10-18 months from the testing date when stored under ideal conditions. Keep in mind that every seed is different, and results vary. With proper lawn care services and seasonal maintenance in Calgary, your grass seeds can sprout and help your garden thrive.