Small envelopes for dry seeds

A packet is not a drying method

This envelope is for seeds that are already dry. Putting damp seeds in paper does not make them ready for storage. Follow the needs of the particular plant and retain known source and sowing information. The packet does not replace species-specific seed storage guidance.

A clean, uncoated paper offcut is enough for a small quantity. Glossy packaging is less convenient for this straightforward fold. Hold the paper to the light and check for holes or tears. Very fine seed needs fully closed seams.

Fold a simple pocket

Cut a rectangle 4 by 6 inches. Place the short side horizontally and fold the bottom half upward to form a 4-by-3-inch pocket. Open the fold again.

Mark a 3/8-inch glue strip down each side of the lower half. Apply a thin layer of paper-suitable adhesive to those strips, leaving the pocket interior uncoated. Fold the lower half up again and press the side areas. The bottom is a fold and the top remains open.

Let the pocket dry completely. Inspect both sides, especially the lower corners, for gaps. A closed seam matters more here than a decorative edge. If a corner will not close reliably, make another sample before adding seeds.

Fold the empty top edge down about 3/8 inch to establish the closure. A second fold may help contain fine seed if enough space remains inside. The finished packet will therefore be smaller than the original blank.

Identify it while it is still flat

Write the plant, variety when known and date on the empty packet. If the seeds came from a purchased package, retain relevant information from it without adding uncertain claims. For collected seed, an honest record of its known source is better than a guessed variety name.

Use a pen that stays legible and does not smear on the chosen paper. Let the writing dry before stacking packets. Add a modest quantity of seeds without packing the pocket tightly. Close the prepared fold and use a suitable removable fastening if the flap otherwise opens.

Keep the labeled packets in conditions suitable for that seed, protected from moisture and mix-ups. A clearly identified outer container can organize loose packets, but it should not conceal damp contents.

Store seeds separately from food and out of reach of children and pets. This craft packet is not a food container. When giving seeds to someone else, include the plant information you actually know. Attractive wrapping does not establish germination rate or suitability for a particular growing location.