Every year we find ourselves with seeds that we’ve collected from our plants. Do you know how to store them correctly so that they will still be viable in the new year?

Here’s a simple way to store and protect the seeds that you have collected. Get a glass jar or coffee can with a tight fitting lid. I suppose a small tupperware container or even a film canister could work too.

Purchase seed packages from a nursery. You can buy the small envelopes in 50 or 100 packs. Place your seeds in the packages and label them. Be sure to include the date when you label the packet. Now, before you place the seed packets in the storage jar or container seal them will tape so that the seeds will not spill out.

Place the packets in the tightly lidded container and store them in a cool area of your home. An area that maintains a temperature of 35 to 45 F is perfect. The lower portion of your refrigerator is usually set for this temperature range so you might opt to store you seeds in the fridge. Seeds stored in this manner can last for years.