Reference
How to Store Saved Seeds and How Long They Last
The short answer
Once seeds are thoroughly dry, store them cool, dry, and dark in tightly sealed containers. A steady temperature around 32 to 41 degrees F with low humidity is ideal, so a refrigerator or freezer with an airtight container works well; a cool basement or closet is a simpler option.
Most vegetable and flower seeds stay viable two to three years under good conditions, but longevity varies by crop. Short-lived seeds like onion, corn, parsley, parsnip, and pepper last only one to two years, while longer-lived seeds like tomato, cucumber, and members of the cabbage family can keep several years.
Storage conditions
Temperature and humidity most affect how long seed stays alive. Cooler and drier is better, and seed must be fully dry before sealing.
- Store in tightly sealed glass or plastic containers.
- Keep cool: about 32 to 41 degrees F is ideal; a refrigerator works well.
- A small packet of silica-gel desiccant helps hold seed dry.
- Thoroughly dried seed can also be frozen in an airtight container for longer life.
Longevity by crop
- Short-lived (1-2 years): corn, onion, parsley, parsnip, pepper.
- Intermediate (3-4 years): asparagus, bean, broccoli, carrot, celery, leek, pea, spinach.
- Longer-lived (4-5 years): beet, chard, cabbage family, turnip, radish, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, melon, squash/pumpkin, tomato, watermelon.
→ Ranges are typical guides, not guarantees. Run a germination test on older seed before relying on it.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- Utah State University Extension — Collecting and Storing Seeds from Your Garden — Store dried seed cool, dry, and dark; refrigerator or freezer in airtight containers extends life.
- Iowa State University Extension — What is the best way to store left-over seeds? — Many seeds stay viable 2-3 years stored cool and dry in sealed containers.
- Oregon State University Extension — Collecting and storing seeds from your garden — Seed longevity varies by crop, from short-lived onion/pepper to longer-lived tomato and cabbage family.