Gathering Nasturtium Seeds: A Step-by-Step Guide

Oleh Anonymous July 28, 2023 Post a Comment

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Nasturtium Seeds

If you're an avid gardener or just love to grow your own plants, you might be interested in learning more about gathering nasturtium seeds. These beautiful and edible flowers are easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of gathering nasturtium seeds step by step.

What You'll Need

Before you get ed, you'll need a few supplies. Here's what you'll need:

A pair of sharp scissors or pruners
A small container or baggie (to collect the seeds)
Paper towels or a screen (for drying the seeds)
A well-established nasturtium plant (with mature seed pods)

Step 1: Identify Mature Seed Pods

The first step is to identify which seed pods are mature enough to harvest. Look for seed pods that have turned brown or black and are ing to dry out. You'll also notice that the pods are beginning to split open at the seams, revealing small, dark-colored seeds inside.

Tips:

Harvesting seeds from immature pods will result in lower germination rates.
Make sure to check your nasturtium plant regularly so that you don't miss the ideal harvest time.

Step 2: Cut the Seed Pods

Once you've identified the mature seed pods, use your sharp scissors or pruners to cut the stem just below the pod. Make sure to hold the pod over your container or baggie to catch any seeds that might fall out.

Tips:

Be gentle when cutting the seed pods to avoid damaging the plant.
It's best to harvest the seeds on a dry day when there is no chance of rain.

Step 3: Remove the Seeds from the Pods

After you've collected all of the mature seed pods, it's time to remove the seeds from the pods. You can do this by gently pressing and rolling the pods between your fingers. The seeds should easily fall out of the pod and into your container or baggie.

Tips:

Make sure to remove any debris or plant material from the seeds before drying them.
You can also use a small brush or toothbrush to help remove any stubborn seeds from the pod.

Step 4: Dry the Seeds

Once you've removed all of the seeds from the pods, it's time to dry them. Lay out the seeds on a paper towel or screen in a warm, dry place for a few days. Make sure to stir the seeds occasionally to ensure they are drying evenly.

Tips:

A sunny windowsill or warm closet are both good places to dry the seeds.
Make sure the seeds are completely dry before storing them.

Step 5: Store the Seeds

After the seeds have dried completely, store them in an airtight container (like a glass jar or plastic baggie) in a cool, dark place. Make sure to label the container with the date and type of seed.

Tips:

Stored properly, nasturtium seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years.
Make sure the container is completely airtight to prevent moisture from getting in and damaging the seeds.

What to Do with Nasturtium Seeds

Now that you know how to gather and store nasturtium seeds, you might be wondering what to do with them. Here are a few ideas:

Plant them in your garden to grow more beautiful and edible nasturtium plants.
Dry the seeds and use them as a peppery spice in your cooking.
Save the seeds to give away or trade with other gardeners.

FAQs

Q1. When is the best time to harvest nasturtium seeds?

A1. The best time to harvest nasturtium seeds is when the seed pods have turned brown or black and are ing to dry out.

Q2. How can I tell if a seed pod is mature enough to harvest?

A2. Look for seed pods that are turning brown or black and are beginning to split open at the seams. You'll also notice small, dark-colored seeds inside.

Q3. Can I plant nasturtium seeds directly in the ground?

A3. Yes, you can plant nasturtium seeds directly in the ground. Make sure to plant them in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.