Did your flower garden exceed your expectations this year? The magnificent blooms are fading into memory as the fall season approaches. Do not let the seeds go to waste. Collecting the seeds from your flower garden is an inexpensive way to get a head start on next year's blooms.

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Tips on Saving Flower Seeds

Are you ready to save your seeds? The process of saving seeds from season to season is a great fall activity. Get outdoors! Enjoy the last of your flower beds before the winter weather sets in.

  1. Tools: The tools needed to collect seeds are basic. A pair of scissors or garden clippers work well for removing dead blooms. If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing gardening gloves to protect your hands. Paper bags or other container to collect seeds.
  2. Time to Collect: Begin collecting seeds about 2 to 3 weeks after the flowers stop blooming.
  3. Weather: Wait until a warm, sunny day to collect the seeds.
  4. Collection Time: Simply clip the blooms. If using a paper bag (lunch sacks work well), snip and allow the seeds to fall into the bag.
  5. Cleaning: Before storing, the seeds must be free from debris. You can clean as you go or wait until you spread the seeds out to dry. Do not skip this step. Debris or the seed pods may contain fungus or insect eggs. Always clean the excess away from the seeds.  
  6. Drying Time: Spread the seeds out on wax paper, newspaper, or paper towel to dry. Allow the seeds to dry for at least a week.
  7. Seed Organization: Once the seeds are dry, move on the storage process. There are different ways to store seeds. Place seeds in large envelops, plastic bags, small containers, or the previously used paper bags. Mark the storage unit with the date and type of flower.
  8. Final Storage: Place your seed harvest in an airtight container. Set the container in a cool, dry, and dark area in the house or garage for next spring's planting.

If you have an abundance of seeds, consider swapping with other gardeners. Trading seeds with others is a great way to meet people and get a new variety of seeds.