Storing pollen....

[Lisa]

I have learned a great deal from all of you but need a bit more detail about storing pollen for my paphs. Alot of people suggest small baggies, etc. However, before I put it in the refrig do I totally seal up the baggie or tighten up a cap on a small container? LOL... I know it's not a breathing entity but want to make sure I do it the right way and not start out by suffocation.

Once again thanks for all consideration and input!
Lisa

[Royal]

You are right, breathing isn't an issue. Rot, mold, and fungus are. You don't want to store anything with a high moisture content in plastic. Pollen, seed, etc. should be dry before long-term storage.

Take a coffee filter or a piece of copy paper and write your info on it. Draw a little circle, and place the pollen in that circle (so you can find it later). Fold it loosely and stick it on a shelf for a week or so, in still dry air. At that point it's probably safe to store in a plastic bag in the fridge.

[Lisa]

Thank you so much! Makes alot of sense. Lisa

[maitaman]

You can store pollen and/or seed in a sealed vial if you first dessicate it. Get a wide-mouthed jar, put in some water, add CaCl (Damp-Rid) until no more will dissolve, put something in the jar to float or suspend the seed above the liquid, seal, place in a dark place for 12-24 hours, and you have the optimum moisture content in your seed/pollen.

[Lisa]

Thank you! I have alot to learn and appreciate your help! Lisa

[Royal]

Originally Posted by Lisa

Thank you! I have alot to learn and appreciate your help! Lisa

So do I. Thanks for the tip, maitaman.

[taipan]

Another method for storing pollen & doesn't take up the space is to cut a drinking straw into approx 2" pieces seal the end by heating it with a match or cig.lighter, put the pollen in & sealing the other end the same way. You can write the name with a perm.ink felt pen. The air inside would to some degree prevent the pollen from being crushed.