To get seeds from your flowers, allow the blooms to fully mature and dry on their stalks, then harvest the seeds. Here's a more detailed guide:
Steps to Collect Flower Seeds
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Allow Flowers to Mature and Dry: Don't remove spent blooms immediately. Instead, let them dry completely on the plant. This ensures the seeds are fully developed and viable.
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Harvesting:
- For flowers with smaller seeds: Cut off the entire flower head, snipping the stem below the bloom. This also encourages more flowering from the mother plant.
- For flowers with larger seeds: You may be able to collect the seeds directly from the dried flower head. Some seed pods will naturally burst open when ripe, indicating it's time to harvest.
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Seed Separation: Carefully separate the seeds from the dried flower heads. You can do this by gently crushing the flower heads or shaking them in a container.
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Drying Seeds (Further): Spread the seeds out on a paper towel or tray in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Allow them to dry completely for a week or two. This prevents mold and ensures longer storage.
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Cleaning (Optional): Remove any remaining chaff or debris from the seeds. You can use a fine-mesh sieve or gently blow away the lighter particles.
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Storage: Store the dried, cleaned seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Label the container with the type of flower and the date of harvest. This will help you keep track of your seeds and their viability.
By following these steps, you can successfully collect and store seeds from your flowers, allowing you to regrow your favorite plants year after year.
