5 Tips for Saving Flower Seeds From Your Garden

Saving flower seeds from your garden is a rewarding and sustainable way to ensure your favorite blooms return year after year.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, collecting and storing flower seeds is a simple yet essential skill.

In this blog, we'll explore five valuable tips to help you successfully save and store flower seeds from your garden.

1. Choose Healthy, Mature Flowers:

The first step in seed-saving success is selecting the right flowers. Choose healthy, vibrant blooms of your favorite flowers that have reached full maturity. This ensures that the seeds inside the flowers are fully developed and ready for harvesting. Look for flowers that have faded and started to dry on the plant, indicating that they are past their peak and ready to produce seeds.

2. Timing Is Key:

Timing is crucial when it comes to saving flower seeds. You'll want to wait until the seed pods have formed and are beginning to dry on the plant. This is typically late in the growing season, as the flowers transition from their peak bloom. Keep a close eye on your garden, and when you notice these signs, it's time to start harvesting.

3. Proper Harvesting Techniques:

To collect flower seeds, you'll need to gently remove the seed pods or heads from the plant. Use clean and sharp scissors or pruners to avoid damaging the seeds. Place the seed heads in a paper bag, card board box top, or envelope, as this allows for air circulation and further drying. I put flower heads in my greenhouse with a fan gently circulating air. Label each container with the flower variety and the date of collection.

labeled and ready to dry zinnias

Zinnias after 1-2 weeks of drying

drying gomphrena in cardboard box tops

4. Thorough Drying:

Proper drying is crucial for seed preservation. After harvesting, place the seed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can lead to mold or seed damage. Allow the seeds to air dry for at least a week or until they are completely dry and brittle. Shake the containers occasionally to prevent clumping.

5. Efficient Storage:

Once your flower seeds are thoroughly dried, it's time to store them for future use. Transfer the seeds to airtight containers such as glass jars, plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, or sealed envelopes. Be sure to label each container with the flower variety and the date of collection. Store the seeds in a cool, dark place, away from temperature fluctuations and humidity.

I use mason jars, envelopes and these plastic photo storage containers to organize my seeds.

Buy Cosmos Seeds in my Etsy Shop

Buy Loofah Seeds in my Etsy Shop

These are the paper envelopes I made for seed storage

Here are some inexpensive seed packets in my Etsy Shop that are printable and downloadable that you can make on your own:

https://inthegardensue.etsy.com/listing/1573766777/seed-packet-envelope-inexpensive-diy

https://inthegardensue.etsy.com/listing/1344057227/seed-packet-thank-you-gift-favor

Saving flower seeds from your garden not only allows you to preserve your favorite blooms but also contributes to the overall biodiversity of your garden. By following these five essential tips, you can successfully collect and store flower seeds, ensuring a beautiful and diverse garden for years to come. So, get out there, enjoy your garden, and embark on the rewarding journey of seed saving!

Larkspur can reseed itself or you can save the seed

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