How to Collect Seeds From Nasturtium

Are you looking to collect seeds from your nasturtium plants? You’ve come to the right place! Nasturtiums are a beautiful and edible flower that can add color and flavor to any garden.

How to collect seeds from nasturtium is a simple and rewarding process that allows gardeners to enjoy these vibrant, easy-to-grow flowers year after year. Nasturtiums are known for their bold, colorful blooms and peppery-tasting leaves, making them a favorite in both decorative gardens and edible landscaping. By harvesting seeds from existing plants, you can save money and ensure that your favorite varieties are preserved for future plantings.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, gathering nasturtium seeds is an accessible and satisfying task that contributes to sustainable gardening practices.

What Will You Need?

• Ripe and Healthy Plants: Choose healthy plants, free of disease, and grown without chemicals.
• Seeds: Make sure the seeds you are saving are heirloom or open-pollinated varieties. Hybrids may not produce true-to-type offspring.
• Tools: You will need scissors or pruners for harvesting, paper envelopes for storing the seeds, and markers for labeling.

10 Easy Steps on How to Collect Seeds From Nasturtium

Step 1. Identify Mature Seeds

Begin by observing the nasturtium plant to locate mature seeds that are ready for collection. Mature seeds are generally larger and darker in color compared to newer ones. They might appear brown, beige, or slightly green, depending on the drying stage. These seeds can often be found underneath the plant, as they tend to detach naturally when ripe. Avoid collecting seeds that are still small, light green, or appear immature, as these may not germinate effectively. Carefully inspect the ground and branches of the plant to ensure you collect all possible viable seeds.

Step 2. Wait for Dry Weather

Dry weather is crucial for successful seed collection, as excess moisture can compromise the quality and viability of the seeds. During damp conditions, seeds are more likely to develop mold, mildew, or rot, reducing their potential to germinate. Furthermore, moisture can cause the seeds to swell prematurely, rendering them unsuitable for storage or planting. To ensure optimal results, check the weather forecast and plan your seed collection during a stretch of sunny, dry days. Early morning, after the dew has dried, or later in the afternoon, are often ideal times to gather seeds, as they are less likely to hold residual moisture.

Step 3. Inspect the Plant

Inspecting the plant is a crucial step to ensure successful seed collection. Begin by examining the health of the plant to confirm it is free from diseases or pests, as these issues can affect the quality and viability of the seeds. Look for plants that exhibit strong growth, vibrant foliage, and robust flowering or fruiting. Avoid collecting seeds from plants that appear wilted, discolored, or stunted, as these may not produce high-quality offspring. Additionally, take note of the plant’s stage of development—seeds should generally be harvested when they are mature and dry, which is often indicated by a change in color or texture.

Step 4. Harvest the Seeds

Use clean, sharp tools such as scissors or pruners to carefully remove the seed pods or fruits from the plant. Avoid damaging the plant or nearby foliage during the process. Once collected, place the seeds or seed pods in a breathable container, such as a paper bag, to prevent moisture build-up that could cause mold or rot. Label the container with the plant’s name and collection date to keep track of your harvest. Handle the seeds gently to ensure they remain intact and viable for future planting.

Step 5. Dry the Seeds

After collecting the seeds, it is essential to dry them thoroughly to preserve their viability and prevent decay. Spread the seeds out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface such as a tray, screen, or paper towel. Place them in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, as these can damage the seeds. Allow them to dry for several days, checking and gently stirring them occasionally to ensure even drying. Once the seeds feel completely dry and crisp to the touch, they are ready for storage or planting. Proper drying is a crucial step in maintaining the quality and longevity of your seeds.

Step 6. Remove Debris

Carefully inspect the dried seeds and separate them from any remaining debris, such as plant material, dust, or broken seed fragments. This can be done by hand or using a fine sieve to ensure only clean, viable seeds are kept. Removing debris helps prevent mold, pests, or contamination during storage and ensures healthier seeds for future planting. Take your time with this step to ensure the highest seed quality.

Step 7. Label and Store

Once your seeds are clean and debris-free, it’s crucial to label them accurately before storage. Use a waterproof marker to write down key details such as the plant variety, the harvest date, and any other relevant notes on a label or directly on the storage container. Store the seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place to maintain their viability. Airtight containers, such as glass jars or resealable bags, work well to protect seeds from moisture and pests. For added preservation, consider placing small packets of silica gel inside the containers to absorb any residual humidity. Proper labeling and storage ensure your seeds remain organized and ready for planting when the next season arrives.**

Step 8. Store in a Cool, Dark Place

Keeping your seeds in a cool, dark place is crucial to preserving their longevity and viability. Aim to store the seeds in an environment with stable temperatures, ideally below 50°F (10°C), and minimal light exposure. A basement, refrigerator, or dedicated storage cabinet can serve as an excellent location. Avoid areas with fluctuating temperatures or high humidity, like attics or garages. By maintaining these conditions, you can ensure your seeds stay dormant and healthy until you’re ready to use them for planting.

Step 9. Test Seed Viability

To test the viability of your seeds, conduct a germination test. Start by selecting a sample of seeds from each batch you plan to grow. Place the seeds on a damp paper towel, folding it over to cover them, and then put the paper towel in a sealable plastic bag or container to retain moisture. Keep the bag in a warm, consistent location, such as on top of a refrigerator or a sunny windowsill, maintaining a temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).

Check the seeds daily to ensure the paper towel remains moist and monitor for signs of germination, which may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the plant type. After the test period, calculate the germination rate by dividing the number of sprouted seeds by the total number tested, then multiplying the result by 100.

Step 10. Replant or Share

Once you have identified the viable seeds from your germination test, it’s time to put them to good use. Replant the sprouted seeds directly into soil, either in pots or in your garden, ensuring proper spacing and depth as recommended for the specific plant species. For seeds that are still viable but not currently needed, consider sharing them with friends, family, or local gardening groups.

By following these steps, you can successfully save and reuse nasturtium seeds, promoting sustainability and the joy of gardening.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Overwatering: While it may seem like giving your plants more water is better for them, overwatering can be harmful. It can lead to root rot and increase the risk of fungal diseases. Instead, make sure to check the moisture level of your soil before watering and only give your plants what they need.
2. Using Synthetic Fertilizers: Although it might provide quick results, using synthetic fertilizers can have negative effects on both plants and the environment. They often contain high levels of chemicals that can harm beneficial microorganisms in the soil and cause imbalances in plant growth.
3. Ignoring Pests: Pests can be a major threat to the health and growth of your plants. It’s important to regularly check for any signs of pests and take appropriate measures to prevent infestations.
4. Overcrowding Plants: Many gardeners make the mistake of planting too many plants in one area, leading to overcrowding. This can result in competition for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients, ultimately stunting the growth of your plants.
5. Neglecting Pruning: Pruning is an essential part of maintaining healthy plants. It involves removing dead or damaged branches, shaping the plant, and promoting new growth. Neglecting to prune your plants can lead to an overgrowth of branches, which can block sunlight and air circulation, making them more susceptible to diseases.

Conclusion

How to collect seeds from nasturtium, Begin by identifying mature seed pods on the plant. These are typically light brown and feel slightly firm to the touch.

Once the seeds are ready, carefully detach them from the plant by hand. Allow the seeds to dry completely in a cool, dry place for a few days, as this prevents mold or rot during storage. Once dried, store the seeds in a labeled envelope or an airtight container in a dark, dry location.

Properly collected and stored seeds can remain viable for planting in the next growing season, ensuring a continuous cycle of vibrant nasturtiums.