Got leftover grass seed from patching up your lawn? Don’t let it go to waste. Here’s how to store grass seed: Place it in cool, dry conditions away from moisture and sunlight.
Following simple storage techniques can help your grass seeds last between 1 and 3 years (sometimes up to 5 years, if you’re lucky). And remember: keep the grass seed in its original packaging and off the floor to avoid pests.
And once you’re ready to take the grass seed out of storage, we’ll also show you how to check if the seeds are good or not.
5 Tips to Store Grass Seed
Ready to store your grass seed? Here’s what to do:
1. Keep in Original Packaging
If your grass seed is still in its original packaging, keep it in there. That original bag is designed to keep your seeds in tip-top shape, so leave it be.
If you no longer have the original packaging, store the grass seed in a breathable bag that allows good air flow, such as burlap. If that’s not available either, store the grass seed in a sealed container to keep out moisture.
Pro Tip: To avoid having to keep up with one more bag of lawn care product, hire a lawn care pro to take care of seeding your lawn.
2. Store in Cool, Dry Conditions
Look for a cool, dry environment, as this will shield your seeds from moisture. Store them below 60 degrees Fahrenheit but above freezing.
Find a dry spot with good air circulation. Too much moisture and your seeds could develop fungal decay faster than you can say “moldy mess.”
Pro Tip: Refrigerators are a great place to store grass seed. They’re cool, dry, and lock out humidity.
3. Avoid Freezing Conditions
Choose cool conditions, not freezing conditions. Your grass seeds aren’t fans of the deep freeze. They’re more into cool and comfy rather than icy and inhospitable.
Avoid sheds and unheated garages. These places can be too unpredictable, swinging from hot to freezing and back again, making them terrible for seed storage. Stick to the right spots, and your seeds will stay their best for the next use.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Sunlight is great for growing grass, but it’s not good for stored grass seeds. Direct sunlight can dry out seeds, reducing their germination rate. Store seeds in a dark, cool place where they are protected from UV light.
Windowless basements and cellars often make excellent choices. Just make sure these spots are dry because a humid place is a no-go zone. No basement? A closet or cabinet can work the same way.
5. Keep off the Floor
Keep the seed bags off the floor to avoid moisture and pests. Ensure the area you choose is out of reach for mice and other rodents. If you’ve got a rodent problem, put the grass seed into tightly sealed containers to keep them safe and sound.
How Long Can I Store Grass Seed?
Under ideal conditions — cool, dry, and away from light — grass seed can last between 1 and 3 years. In some cases, it can last up to 5 years. However, don’t get too comfortable; each year in storage drops the germination rate of seeds.
Pro Tip: There’s a simple trick to handle this. As your seeds age, just use more than the recommended amount to compensate for the lower germination rate.
Signs Storage Grass Seed Is Bad
Here are some signs that your stored grass seed has taken a turn for the worse:
- Smell: Musty or rotten smell, it’s a clear sign seeds are bad. If your grass seeds make you wrinkle your nose, it’s time to toss them.
- Mold: If you spot mold, it’s game over for your grass seed. Moldy seeds are as likely to grow as a rock.
- Pests: Found some nibble marks on your seed stash? Pests not only eat your seeds but also expose them to the humidity, making them less viable.
- Clumps: Healthy grass seed should be free-flowing. If you notice clumps, that’s a red flag. Clumping indicates moisture exposure.
If you’re ever in doubt about the state of your seeds, remember to perform a germination or water test. This way, you can confirm whether your seeds are ready to sprout or if they belong in the compost pile.
FAQ About Storing Grass Seed
What Temperature Should I Store my Grass Seeds?
Store grass seeds at temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit but above freezing.
Can I Use Old Grass Seed to Overseed my Lawn?
Yes, you can use old grass seed to overseed your lawn. Just consider that after 3 years, fewer seeds will still be good. Even if you store your grass seed in a cool, dry spot, you’ll need to use more seed to cover your lawn properly.
Can I Store Grass Seeds in my Fridge?
Yes, you can store grass seed in the fridge. A refrigerator is an excellent option. It can extend the seeds’ storage life.
Read More:
- When to Overseed in Spring
- How to Overseed in the Fall With Fescue
- When to Mow After Overseeding
- 9 Aeration and Overseeding Mistakes to Avoid (Simple Tips)
Call a Lawn Care Professional
Choosing the proper container, creating the ideal storage conditions, and finding the perfect location will ensure your store grass seed lasts longer.
Once you have planted your stored grass seed, take into account that your new grass will soon need mowing and expert care. Don’t hesitate to call a lawn care professional. They can provide that extra touch to transform your yard into its best version.
Main Image Credit: cobracz / Adobe Stock / License
