If the seeds are dark & have a hard shiny outer shell then they are ready to grow, most people wait at least a few days before germination but I have heard of people using them right off the plants if they are fully mature before harvest..you should see about 75% germ rate on BRAND NEW seeds...this can increase to 90%-95%+ in a few weeks as the slightly immature seeds continue to fully develop internally after being removed from the plant. Good luck!

So, the answer is NO you do not have to wait a long time...and properly stored seeds that are kept in a dark cool place..(NOT FROZEN) can last over 10 years and still retain a decent germination rate. :hippy: