What To Know
- For flowers like zinnias, sunflowers, and cosmos, simply cut the dried flower heads with a sharp pair of scissors or a garden knife.
- For delicate flowers like poppies, place a paper bag over the flower head and gently shake the plant to release the seeds into the bag.
- Spread the seeds on a paper towel or a screen in a well-ventilated area.
Growing your own flowers is a rewarding experience, but did you ever think about saving seeds from your blooms and starting your own flower garden next year? Harvesting flower seeds isn’t as complicated as it might seem. It’s a simple and satisfying process that allows you to enjoy the fruits (or rather, seeds) of your labor. This guide will walk you through the process of how to harvest flower seeds, from identifying the right time to collect them to properly storing them for future use.
Choosing the Right Flowers
Not all flowers are created equal when it comes to seed saving. Some flowers produce seeds readily, while others are more challenging. Here are a few things to consider when selecting flowers for seed harvesting:
- Hybrid vs. Heirloom: Heirloom varieties are generally the best choice for seed saving. These flowers have been bred for generations and retain their unique characteristics. Hybrid flowers, on the other hand, are the result of cross-pollination, and their offspring may not inherit the parent plant’s traits.
- Self-Pollinating vs. Cross-Pollinating: Self-pollinating flowers, like zinnias and sunflowers, produce seeds from their own pollen. Cross-pollinating flowers, like cosmos and marigolds, rely on insects or wind to transfer pollen from one plant to another. If you’re aiming for a specific variety, it’s best to choose self-pollinating flowers.
- Open-Pollinated vs. Closed-Pollinated: Open-pollinated flowers can cross-pollinate with other varieties of the same species, while closed-pollinated flowers only self-pollinate. For seed saving, open-pollinated flowers allow for greater genetic diversity, while closed-pollinated flowers ensure consistency in traits.
Timing is Key: When to Harvest Flower Seeds
Knowing when to harvest flower seeds is crucial for ensuring their viability. Here’s a general guideline:
- Wait for the flower heads to dry and turn brown: This indicates that the seeds are mature and ready for collection.
- Check for seedpods: Some flowers, like poppies and cosmos, develop seedpods that will be ready to harvest when they turn brown and dry.
- Don’t wait too long: If you wait too long, the seedpods may split open and scatter the seeds.
The Art of Harvesting Flower Seeds
Once you’ve identified the ripe seed heads, it’s time to harvest them. Here are some techniques for different types of flowers:
- Direct Harvesting: For flowers like zinnias, sunflowers, and cosmos, simply cut the dried flower heads with a sharp pair of scissors or a garden knife.
- Seedpod Harvesting: For flowers with seedpods, carefully twist or cut the pods off the plant.
- Paper Bag Method: For delicate flowers like poppies, place a paper bag over the flower head and gently shake the plant to release the seeds into the bag.
Preparing Your Seeds for Storage
After harvesting, your seeds need a bit of preparation before they’re ready for storage.
- Cleaning: Remove any debris, petals, or stems from the seeds. You can use a sieve or a small brush to clean them.
- Drying: Spread the seeds on a paper towel or a screen in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to dry for a few days or until they are completely dry.
- Storing: Once the seeds are dry, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place. Label your containers with the name of the flower and the year of harvest.
Tips for Success: Maximizing Your Seed Harvest
Here are some tips for maximizing your seed harvest:
- Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers encourages the plant to produce more flowers, which in turn will produce more seeds.
- Protecting from Pests: Birds and insects can be a nuisance when it comes to seed harvesting. Protect your plants with netting or other deterrents.
- Keep Records: Keep track of the flowers you’ve harvested seeds from, including the variety and the date of harvest. This will help you plan your garden for the following year.
The Joy of Growing From Seed: A Legacy of Blooms
Saving flower seeds is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with the natural cycle of growth and renewal. It’s a way to extend the beauty of your garden and pass on your favorite flowers to future generations. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own flowers from seed, year after year.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I save seeds from hybrid flowers?
A: While you can save seeds from hybrid flowers, the resulting offspring may not inherit the parent plant’s desired traits.
Q: How long can I store flower seeds?
A: Most flower seeds can be stored for 2-3 years, but some can last even longer.
Q: What are some good flowers for beginners to harvest seeds from?
A: Zinnias, sunflowers, cosmos, and marigolds are all easy-to-grow flowers that produce plenty of seeds.
Q: What if my seeds don‘t germinate?
A: There are many factors that can affect seed germination, such as age, storage conditions, and planting depth. If your seeds don’t germinate, try starting them indoors or adjusting your planting methods.
Q: What are some other ways to propagate flowers?
A: Besides seed harvesting, you can also propagate flowers through cuttings, division, or layering.
