Survival Seeds Definition and Storage
In troubled economic times, periods of world chaos, and an uncertain future,
more people look to stow away essential items, just in case the worst should
come to pass.
One of those essential items are garden seeds, refered to as "survival seeds"
in this context. These garden seeds include a wide range of vegetables and
herbs that you can grow to feed yourself and your family, if the unimaginable
happens.
The topic of Survival Seeds covers three important issues: Definition, Sources,
and Storage.
Read on........
1. Survival Seed Definition:
Survival seeds are garden vegetable and herb seeds that can be stored away
for later use, when a world famine or other calamity hits the country or
the world. They must be non-GMO and non-hybrid seeds. Heirloom seeds
are great candidates for Survival Seeds. It is also desirable, that the seeds
are organic. But, a survival seed does not have to be an heirloom or organic
seed.
More on Non-GMO seeds
More on
Heirloom Seeds
Some people state that they must be seeds from open-pollinated plants. This
eliminates GMO and Hybrid seeds. But, it would also exclude hand-pollinated
seeds. Hand pollination is not practiced by large seed companies, as it would
be impractical. But, a homeowner could and does hand pollinate plants. So,
a homeowner hand pollinating an heirloom plant would ultimately harvest vegetable
seeds that qualify in every way as a Survival Seeds.
Organic Seeds, by their definition qualify as "Survival Seeds". They are
closely monitored by the USDA. Some smaller seed companies claim to sell
organic seeds, but are not certified. When buying Organic seeds, look for
the statement "USDA Certified" and the USDA label on the packet.
More
on Organic Seeds
2. Sources of Survival Seeds
Armed with the definition of survival seeds (above), you can go out in search
of your seeds. Use a little caution. There are plenty of companies and websites
claiming to be marketing "survival seeds". However, there are no controls
or monitoring. And, you are paying a premium price for seeds that just might
not be what they are claimed to be.
You will be better off to surf through the offerings of reputable seed
manufacturers, like Ferry Morse, who do not sell GMO seeds. Start with the
"organic seed" categories. Then, browse their other offerings. If the title
or description says "Hybrid", then exclude this item from your survival seed
search.
Browse Organic Seeds
3. Survival Seed Storage
Now that you have acquired your survival seeds, you need to properly store
them, so the seeds will be viable, if you ever need them. Properly
stored, seeds can usually last a long time. Archaeologists have opened ancient
Egyptian tombs, and found baskets filled with wheat seeds. When tested, some
of them sprouted...... perhaps the ultimate survival seeds!
For long term storage, place your seeds into a sealable plastic bag or a
metal can that tightly closes. Then, put them in a cool, dry (low humidity),
and dark place.
Important Note: If you are harvesting your own seeds for storage,
it is absolutely essential that the seeds be properly dried, prior to long
term storage in a sealed container.
Some survivalists put their seeds in the freezer for long term storage. That's
fine for most seeds. However, the concept of relying on survival seeds in
the freezer in anticipation of an apocalyptic event, seems a bit odd........
there would be no electricity!
More on Seed Storage
More Information:
Buy Vegetable Seeds Finest quality Ferry Morse Seed,
America's oldest seed company, and their famous "guarantee to grow". |
