Tomato Seed Storage with Silica Gel

coolbythecoast · February 22, 2018

I am storing my tomato seeds in an airtight glass jar with a goodly amount of Silica Gel with the intent to extend the life of the seeds. I read that good storage conditions are met when the temperature in Fahrenheit added to the Relative Humidity results in a sum that is less than 100.

But is there a thing as too dry? I have heard of a thing called 'hard seed' where the seed is so dry that it has trouble taking in water for germination, but this is mostly said of large seeds and I assume that the only harm is delay in germination. What I don't know is if it is possible to actually harm my tomato seeds by being overly dry. My humidity indicator strip registers 10% humidity or less.

And what about the combination of Silica Gel and storage in the refrigerator?
With 10% humidity in the jar, does storing in the refrigerator change things?

Thanks,
Gary

February 22, 2018	#1
coolbythecoast Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2007 Location: SoCal Posts: 39	Tomato Seed Storage with Silica Gel I am storing my tomato seeds in an airtight glass jar with a goodly amount of Silica Gel with the intent to extend the life of the seeds. I read that good storage conditions are met when the temperature in Fahrenheit added to the Relative Humidity results in a sum that is less than 100. But is there a thing as too dry? I have heard of a thing called 'hard seed' where the seed is so dry that it has trouble taking in water for germination, but this is mostly said of large seeds and I assume that the only harm is delay in germination. What I don't know is if it is possible to actually harm my tomato seeds by being overly dry. My humidity indicator strip registers 10% humidity or less. And what about the combination of Silica Gel and storage in the refrigerator? With 10% humidity in the jar, does storing in the refrigerator change things? Thanks, Gary