Putting seeds in the fridge.

buddys_mum

It may sound silly putting the seeds in the fridge but it's to copy the effect of seasons for the seeds, going from cold to warm.

Definately worth a go but don't expect all the seeds to grow!

Ive done this for years and i have always had a good return from them.

[Deleted User]

I have always kept my seeds in the fridge and some have been used for 3 years now. As soon as I have finished planting, I will be putting them all into lock and lock boxes and storing in the fridge again

Lotus-eater

I keep mine on top of the fridge, is that good enough

My fridge isn't big enough to fit them all inside.

buddys_mum

They only need to be in the fridge for 24hrs. Can you do a couple of packets at a time?

Lotus-eater

My house is so cold, they get their winter season anyway.

A._Badger

Two things. If you are going to put seeds in a frifge,make sure they are kept dry. The best way is in a sealed container with some silica gel crystals.

The second is that not all seeds need vernalisiing - which is the horticultural term for deliberately subjecting seeds to a cold spell to induce germination. A lot of seeds we sow are from warmer climates where the sort of cold temperatures found in a fridge are rarely, if ever, experienced.

The best reason for keeping seeds in a fridge (so long as they are dry) is to extend their lifespan.

buddys_mum

I find that putting them in the fridge for 24hours encourages them to germinate quicker. I'm not bothered about extending lifespan, they are in the fridge for a maximum of 24hours.

lostinrates

I've been thinking of trying some yew seeds I have not yet sown in the fridge to replicate winter. I thought I'd need to put them in for 6 weeks though...is this wrong?

A._Badger

buddys_mum wrote: »

I find that putting them in the fridge for 24hours encourages them to germinate quicker. I'm not bothered about extending lifespan, they are in the fridge for a maximum of 24hours.

I hope someone tells Wisley.

A._Badger

lostinrates wrote: »

I've been thinking of trying some yew seeds I have not yet sown in the fridge to replicate winter. I thought I'd need to put them in for 6 weeks though...is this wrong?[/

No, you're right. A period of stratification is needed for quite a few tree seeds.