If you’re a fan of Columbine flowers and have always wondered how to collect their seeds, you’re in luck! Not only are these flowers easy to grow, but the process of collecting their seeds is equally straightforward. In this step-by-step guide, I will walk you through the process with helpful pictures to ensure you’re equipped with all the information you need.
Step One: Gather Your Supplies
To begin, gather the following supplies before you head out to collect the seeds: a tub or container to hold the seeds (an old yogurt container works well), a pair of scissors, and gardening gloves if you prefer using them.
Step Two: Select the Right Seedheads
Once the petals of the Columbine flowers have withered and fallen off, the flower will transform into a green pod. In the coming weeks, the pod will dry out and turn brown. It’s crucial to choose a completely dry seedhead for seed collection. Avoid picking seedheads that haven’t dried out entirely. You can tell if a seedhead is ready by gently touching it and listening for the sound of seeds rattling inside. Keep in mind that you should collect the seeds before a strong wind blows them out of their pods.
Look for a seedhead similar to the one shown above. Carefully cut it off from the rest of the plant, making sure not to turn it upside down as it may cause the seeds to scatter.
Step Three: Extract the Seeds
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Take your dry seedhead and turn it upside down over your container. You might need to flick the seedpod a few times to ensure all the seeds are emptied out. Typically, each seedhead contains about 10 small black seeds for Columbines.
Step Four: Clean and Store the Seeds
Congratulations! You have successfully collected the seeds. Dispose of the seed heads by composting them or throwing them away. To ensure the seeds are in optimal condition for future use, consider following these additional steps:
- Take the seeds indoors and spread them over a piece of wax paper for a few hours. This will help eliminate any potential bugs and ensure the seeds are thoroughly dry.
- Avoid storing damp seeds, as they are prone to mold and may ruin the entire collection. Always aim for dry seeds.
- For long-term storage, place the seeds in an airtight container or a paper envelope.
- Remember that seeds are generally viable for about a year after collection.
And that’s it! Collecting seeds from Columbine flowers is a simple and satisfying process. Who would have thought that you could save money by growing your own Columbines from collected seeds instead of buying them for up to $4 a packet?
When it’s time to plant your seeds, consider conducting a germination test. Place a few seeds on a damp cloth in a dark cupboard for a few days. If fewer than half of the seeds sprout within that period, it’s best to discard them. Additionally, sharing your (good) seeds as gifts with friends is an excellent way to spread the joy of growing Columbines. Just make sure to store the seeds properly to maintain their viability.
Remember, collecting seeds is not just a practical activity but also a rewarding one. Happy seed collecting and happy gardening!
