Calla lily seeds develop inside the berries that form after the flower fades and require specific conditions to maintain their ability to germinate. Proper storage is necessary because these living organisms easily lose viability if exposed to unfavorable conditions like heat, light, or excessive moisture. The goal of storage is to slow down the seed’s metabolic rate, preserving its energy reserves and preventing premature sprouting or fungal decay.
Preparing Calla Lily Seeds for Storage
The initial preparation of calla lily seeds determines the success of long-term storage, starting with the complete removal of the fleshy fruit pulp surrounding the seed. This pulp contains moisture and germination inhibitors, which encourage mold growth if not thoroughly cleaned away. The seeds should be gently washed under running water or soaked for a day or two, with the water changed frequently, to dissolve the sticky residue.
Once cleaned, the seeds must be dried or cured to reduce their internal moisture content. Seeds that are too moist will quickly rot or become susceptible to fungus, even in cold storage. Spread the cleaned seeds in a single layer on a non-porous surface, such as a ceramic plate or a coffee filter, away from direct sunlight.
Allowing the seeds to air-dry in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated location for approximately one to two weeks ensures they become completely dry. This curing process simulates the natural drying that occurs when seeds drop from the plant and is mandatory before sealing them in any container. Only fully dried seeds are ready for extended storage.
Selecting Storage Containers and Mediums
The choice of storage container depends on the dryness of the seeds and the intended duration of storage. For seeds that have been completely cured and will be stored for a year or more, an airtight container provides the best protection from external humidity fluctuations. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or sealed plastic vials are excellent options for creating a stable microenvironment.
If there is any doubt about the dryness of the seeds, a breathable container, such as a paper envelope or small paper bag, can be used temporarily. These breathable options prevent moisture from being trapped, which can lead to mold, but they offer less protection from external environmental changes. Always label the container clearly with the seed type and the date of harvest to track viability over time.
To manage any residual moisture sealed within the container, a desiccant should be included with the seeds. Small packets of silica gel work well, or a simple alternative is a tiny packet of powdered milk wrapped in tissue paper, which absorbs moisture within the sealed jar. The seeds should be stored without a planting medium, which can hold moisture and encourage metabolic activity.
Maintaining Viability Through Environmental Control
Long-term viability relies on maintaining a consistently cool, dry, and dark environment. Low temperatures significantly reduce the seed’s metabolic rate, slowing the rate at which its stored energy reserves are consumed. The ideal temperature range for maximizing storage life is between 35°F and 45°F.
The vegetable crisper drawer in a household refrigerator is an excellent location because it provides this stable, cool temperature and is naturally dark. Storing the seeds in darkness is important because light exposure can trigger premature germination if any moisture is present. Avoid locations with fluctuating temperatures, such as unheated garages or sheds, which can break dormancy and reduce the seed’s lifespan.
When retrieving seeds from refrigerated storage, the sealed container should be allowed to warm up to room temperature before being opened. This prevents warm, humid room air from condensing as moisture on the cold seeds, which would compromise their dryness. Properly stored calla lily seeds can retain good germination rates for at least one to two years, though viability gradually declines with each passing year.