Seed Storage Containers

[Dustin]

I have done a google search including the site:www.homesteadingtoday.com search and looked at some old threads. Just curious as to what everyone's seed storage looks like. I'm in a technical profession because I have a want for things to be neat and organized, cataloged, data logged, etc., etc.

These are what I think I'm going to pick up;
1.5 oz Round Sample Jar 43 Lug
The jars could then be stored in an organized wooden box and labeled. I thinking something alongs of this, but replace the plastic with glass and the box with wood.
Lola Digs: Seed Solution - Today's Nest

I also think test tubes could be useful;
More Than Pretty Heirloom Tomatoes: Saving Seeds Critical to Combatting Climate Change : TreeHugger

All those pics were ones I found on the net. What do y'all use?

[luvrulz]

I use old prescription bottles....kid proof lids and they fit easy in most pockets for when you're planting...or whatever!

[How Do I]

Canning jars and old prescription bottles. I try to stay more focused on reuse and recycle than anything.

[wes917]

I use bottles similiar to what you first posted, but they are plastic with snap tight lids. I think they are more like 3ozs containers though.

[Badger]

I use manilla envelopes in hanging files in a filing cabinet in an unheated building. seal the envelopes and slit the narrow end for filling then just tape or staple. Mark the date and seed variety on the envelope.

[where I want to]

I use canning jars that I vacuum seal. I write the names of the various seeds on the lid and just open and reseal as I need.

[Chucknbob]

Little paper envelopes stored inside mason jars. You can fit several envelopes in a jar.

[MoTightwad]

I, too, use perscription bottles or the little jars with chips in the tops that have a lid. That way I don;t have so many in the trash. I do like your jars tho. Very neat.

[Dustin]

I'm going to go with glass as that's what the studies seem to show being the best. Reuse is always the best option; I need to learn to practice it more though. We don't have medications, babies for the food jars, and we just moved down south so don't even know anyone whose "junk" we can have.

Anyone have any pictures?

[Paquebot]

I use those same 1½ ounce glass jars for most of my small seeds. I get them from Fillmore, 160 in a case, and now working on my 4th case. Cost for bottles, caps, and shipping was $71.24 or just under 45¢ each. The lids seal tight and don't allow any moisture in.

Martin

[edcopp]

DD sent me over a bushel or two of baby food jars with lids. She decided that since her only child is not at home any more, it might be good to dispose of the jars. He has been in the service for tha past two years or so.

Works well for me.

[galee]

The spice bottles with the dual flip lids work well for me--I can use the shaker side for tiny seeds and the bigger flip side for bigger seeds. I also use Rx bottles and the junk mail envelopes I get in the mail.

[Callieslamb]

I think your storage system will develop over time. How many seeds you store will be a big part of that. While I like the test-tube idea, runner bean seeds might not fit in there and they might not hold enough seeds for some of the larger seeded veggies to meet your needs.

I use regular old envelopes. You can buy special ones to put seeds in....but I have way too many seeds to keep up with that. I store the envelopes inside manilla envelopes - according to type - summer romaines, winter leafs, butter heads, reds, - etc , paste tomatoes, slicers, cherries, yellows- however I determine to organize them. The manilla envelopes go inside a plastic tub. I have one tub for early veggies and one for late ones. Both tubs are stuffed but I can see from the top of the manilla envelopes what's inside. Seeds I don't use as often - or just grow out every few years to keep the seeds going, go in the extra fridge. The largest of the seeds that I save, or the ones I save in large quantities, like limas, beans, corn - go in either canning or plastic jars I have saved or the larger pill bottles.

[o&itw]

Originally Posted by Paquebot

I use those same 1½ ounce glass jars for most of my small seeds. I get them from Fillmore, 160 in a case, and now working on my 4th case. Cost for bottles, caps, and shipping was $71.24 or just under 45¢ each. The lids seal tight and don't allow any moisture in.

Martin

Hey Martin, I was waiting for your reply since you have so much experience.

I store mine in small zip lock bags (in the refrigerator) because I was worried about storing them in something "air-tight" You have probably done this before, but could you give us a little primer on what one is after in keeping seed viable for the longest period? Seems like my method might not be the best.