Home » How Should I Store Milkweed Seeds?
Botany Butterfly Farming Gardening Horticulture Milkweeds (Asclepias)

How Should I Store Milkweed Seeds?

For best chances of germination, Johnny recommends propagating your Milkweed seeds as soon as possible. Even without a specific germination protocol, overseeding any plot, garden, or marginalized urban area will lead to Milkweeds becoming established, especially when overseeding is used regularly.

Nevertheless, you may wish to store your Milkweed seeds long-term. Here are some tips to help you keep your Milkweed seeds as fresh as possible for as long as possible:

Storage containers

Choose suitable containers for storing the milkweed seeds. Glass jars with airtight lids for holding small paper envelopes are exactly perfect for seed storage. Make sure the containers are clean, dry, and free from any moisture that could lead to mold development.

Labeling

Clearly label the containers with the name of the milkweed species, the date of collection, and any other relevant information. This will help you keep track of the seed variety and ensure you use the oldest seeds first when planting.

Cool, Dark, and Dry Storage

Store the labeled containers in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain seed viability. A cool room or refrigerator set to a temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 41°F (5°C) is ideal. Ensure that the storage location is not subject to extreme temperature fluctuations or excessive humidity, as these can harm the seeds.

Labeled, kraft paper seed envelopes sealed inside a glass jar kept in the refrigerator is quite nearly perfect for long-term storage of Milkweed seeds.

Regular Viability Testing

Milkweed seeds have a variable lifespan, with some species remaining viable for several years and others for a shorter duration. To ensure the seeds remain viable, conduct periodic germination tests. Take a small sample of seeds and sow them according to the recommended germination instructions for the specific milkweed species. If the germination rate is still satisfactory, you can continue to store and use the remaining seeds.

Milkweed seedlings.

By following these steps, you can store Milkweed seeds properly, extending their viability and increasing your chances of successful germination when you’re ready to plant them. This maximizes success for you and the Milkweed Butterfliesone day at a time!

Comments are closed.