Introduction
You can store seeds with oxygen absorbers to help keep them fresh. Oxygen absorbers are packets that contain iron powder, which reacts with the oxygen in the air to create iron oxide. This reaction removes the oxygen from the air, creating an oxygen-free environment that is ideal for storing seeds.
The Benefits of Storing Seeds with Oxygen Absorbers
If you are looking for a way to store your seeds so that they will remain viable for a long time, you may want to consider using oxygen absorbers. Oxygen absorbers are containers that remove oxygen from the air, and this can extend the shelf life of your seeds.
Oxygen Absorbers Prevent Seed germination
Seeds need oxygen for germination, but too much oxygen can be detrimental to their storage life. Oxygen absorbers are often used when storing seeds, as they help to remove excess oxygen from the air and create an inert (oxygen-free) environment. This prevents seed germination and extends the storage life of the seeds.
There are several benefits to using oxygen absorbers for seed storage, including:
- They help keep seeds viable for longer periods of time.
- They prevent seed germination, which can occur when seeds are exposed to too much oxygen.
- They help protect seeds from mold and other pathogens that can degrade their quality.
- They can be used to prevent infestation by insects and other pests.
Oxygen Absorbers Prolong Seed Storage
Storing seeds with oxygen absorbers is one way to prolong the viability of your seeds. Oxygen absorbers are small packets that contain iron powder. When they come in contact with oxygen, they cause a chemical reaction that creates heat and absorbs the oxygen. This process can remove up to 99% of the oxygen from an enclosed space.
Seeds are living things and need oxygen for respiration. By removing the oxygen, you are effectively putting the seeds into a state of suspended animation. They will not grow or develop while in this environment, but they will remain viable for a much longer period of time.
Oxygen absorbers can be purchased online or at some gardening stores. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Simply open a packet and place it in an airtight container with your seeds. Be sure to seal the container tightly to prevent new oxygen from getting in.
Storing seeds with oxygen absorbers is an effective way to prolong their viability. This method can help you keep your seed stock fresh for many years.
The Drawbacks of Storing Seeds with Oxygen Absorbers
Though there are many benefits to using oxygen absorbers to store seeds, there are also a few potential drawbacks. One potential drawback is that oxygen absorbers can remove too much oxygen from the air, which can cause the seeds to rot. Another potential drawback is that oxygen absorbers can be expensive.
Oxygen absorbers are a limited resource
While oxygen absorbers can be a helpful tool for extending the shelf life of your stored seeds, they are not a perfect solution. One of the biggest drawbacks of using oxygen absorbers is that they are a limited resource. Once you open a package of oxygen absorbers, you can only use them once. This means that if you have a large stash of seeds to store, you will need to purchase a lot of oxygen absorbers.
Another downside of oxygen absorbers is that they only work in sealed containers. This means that if you want to use them with an existing storage container, you will need to transfer your seeds into a new, airtight container. This can be an extra step in the seed storage process, and it can also be costly if you need to purchase new storage containers just to use oxygen absorbers.
Oxygen Absorbers can be costly
One of the often overlooked drawbacks of using oxygen absorbers to store seeds is the cost. While you can find them very cheaply online, the price adds up when you are storing a large quantity of seeds. A good rule of thumb is to budget for around $0.10 per 1000 seeds.
Another drawback of using oxygen absorbers is that they can be finicky. If you do not use them correctly, they will not work properly and your seeds will not be stored optimally. Make sure to follow the instructions on the packet carefully, and do not use more or less than recommended.
Conclusion
Oxygen absorbers are a great way to keep your seeds fresh and increase their shelf life. They can also be used to store other items such as spices and flour. If you are using them to store seeds, be sure to follow the instructions on the package to ensure that your seeds remain fresh.