Your leftover seeds will maintain a high germination percentage if stored
under proper conditions. How long your seeds remain viable will depend on
the temperature and moisture levels the seeds are exposed to. Seeds which
are improperly stored will quickly deteriorate if unprotected against high
humidity and dramatic temperature fluctuations day after day.
For best results, store any unused seed in a water resistant container.
Common household items such as ziplock storage bags, glass jars or plastic
containers with snap-on lids work well. Place the unused portion of seed in
the storage container that you have chosen. before sealing the container
add a packet of desiccant to the seed such as silica gel. The silica gel will
remove any moisture that remains in the storage container after it is sealed.
Seed stored under these conditions will remain viable for many years.
If you collect seed from your own wildflower area, the seed should be
thoroughly air dried on newspaper. Seed which are not completely dry
prior to storage will contain excessive moisture which will cause mold to
grow and damage the seed. After the seeds are completely dry. the seeds
should be cleaned to remove as much chaff and leaf litter as possible. Follow
the above procedure to store your how grown wildflower seeds for future use.