LEAFWELL: Do Weed Seeds Go Bad? Our Quick Guide
In our Leafwell article “Do Weed Seeds Go Bad?”, Homegrown Cannabis Co. (reviewed by Dr. Lewis Jassey) explains that cannabis seeds are living organisms whose viability declines over time. At room temperature they remain usable for only a few months; in a cool, dark cupboard they last several years; refrigerated properly, they can stay germination-ready for up to a decade.
Rather than wasting time on old seeds, the article shows how simple checks—like noting their earthy scent, glossy dark shell, firmness to the touch, or whether they sink when soaked—reveal freshness at a glance. It also warns that light, heat, humidity, temperature swings, and air exposure all accelerate seed aging by triggering premature germination or degrading the embryo.
To keep seeds viable, we recommend sealing them in airtight, opaque containers, storing them at stable cool temperatures (ideally 30–40 °F for long-term), and maintaining low humidity with desiccants if needed. These measures preserve the seed’s protective shell and nutrient reserves so your genetics stay strong until you’re ready to grow.Read the full article on Leafwell for more on seed morphology, aging signs, and best-practice storage:
