On Mon, 05 Jan 2004 15:42:46 GMT, Frogleg wrote:

On Sun, 04 Jan 2004 11:26:17 -0500, Navin R. Johnson
wrote:

Last summer I grew some Chinese Hot Peppers that were simply the best
peppers I've ever tasted. I kept a bunch of the seeds and would like to
store them for future use - 4-5 years from now. What's the best way to
store them?

Just curious. Why 4-5 years? While many chile seeds will grow after
long storage, germination rates *do* drop off in time. As for
storing, your greatest enemy is moisture. Whether at room temperature,
in the 'fridge, or in the freezer, making sure they're thoroughly dry
and storing in a sealed container (jar or ziplock plastic) is
recommended. Stored in the dark is better, too.

First, thanx for all the responses. I'm thinkin' that I'll probably
vacuum pack them along with a dessicant and keep them in the fridge in a
brown paper bag to keep out the light. That ought to do it.

The reason I want to keep them for five or so years - I have a small
garden and usually grow lots of herbs and a few cherry tomatoes. Last
year one of my gardening buddies gave me some 'special' Chinese Hot
Pepper seeds to try out. She actually got them from an old guy while she
was in China and then had to 'smuggle' them out. I didn't have much room
so only planted a couple of plants. Those two plants were prolific and
the peppers were fantastic so I kept a lot of the seeds and then planted
30 more plants this past summer. I ended up with a ton of peppers and
after drying now have at least a four or five year supply - and that's
after giving lots to my friends and family. I won't need any more
peppers for awhile and just wanted to be sure that I have at least a few
live seeds for the next time. Thanks again for all the info.

NRJ