How To Save Calendula Seeds
Have you ever grown a beautiful patch of calendula flowers and wished you could preserve them for the next year? Saving calendula seeds isn't as daunting as it seems and with the right techniques, you can keep your beloved flowers blooming all year long.
Pain Points of Saving Calendula Seeds
Saving calendula seeds can be a tricky task for beginners as it requires time and patience. It can be discouraging to see all your hard work turn to waste due to a lack of knowledge on how to collect, clean, and store the seeds correctly. Not having the proper tools or equipment can also hinder your seed saving process.
How to Save Calendula Seeds
The first step to saving calendula seeds is to wait until the flowers have bloomed and dried out. Once this happens, clip the flower heads and place them in a paper bag. Shake the bag gently to release the seeds from the flower head. Next, sift the seeds to remove debris and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until you're ready to replant them.
Main Points to Consider
When saving calendula seeds, it's essential to keep them dry and away from moisture. Proper storage can ensure your seeds will remain viable for next year's planting season. Remember to use the right tools, including a paper bag and sifter, when collecting your seeds.
Personal Experience on How to Save Calendula Seeds
As a newbie gardener, I was eager to try my hand at seed saving, but I was overwhelmed by all the information on the web. When I first attempted to save my calendula seeds, I rushed the process and didn't realize the importance of waiting for the flowers to dry out entirely. This resulted in mushy seeds that were unusable. After learning from my mistake, I waited for the flowers to dry out before clipping them and storing them in a brown paper bag. After a week, I was able to extract the clean, viable seeds and store them in an airtight container.
Tools Needed to Save Calendula Seeds
When saving calendula seeds, it's crucial to have the right tools. These tools include:
- Paper bag
- Sifter
- Airtight container
How to Store Calendula Seeds Properly
When storing calendula seeds, it's essential to keep them away from moisture. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Glass jars or plastic bags are also great options for storing your calendula seeds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Saving Calendula Seeds
One common mistake gardeners make when saving calendula seeds is collecting them before they are fully matured. Waiting for the flowers to dry out completely before clipping them will guarantee a better yield of viable seeds. It's also essential to clean your seeds properly to prevent mold or other bacteria from growing and destroying your seeds. Finally, avoid storing your seeds in a damp or humid environment as it can cause them to rot or develop mildew.
Question & Answer Section
Q1. When is the best time to collect calendula seeds?
A. You should wait until the flowers have fully matured and dried out before collecting your calendula seeds.
Q2. How long can you store calendula seeds?
A. If stored correctly in an airtight container in a dry, cool place, calendula seeds can last up to five years.
Q3. Can you plant calendula seeds directly into the ground?
A. Yes, you can plant calendula seeds directly in the ground. Make sure to plant them in a well-draining soil mix and water them regularly until they germinate.
Q4. Can you save calendula seeds from a hybrid plant?
A. It's not recommended to save seeds from a hybrid plant as they might not produce the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Conclusion
If you're a gardening enthusiast, saving calendula seeds is a must-have skill. Armed with the right tools, patience, and knowledge, you can keep your beloved flowers blooming all year round. Make sure to wait until the flowers have dried out before clipping them and store your seeds correctly in a dry, cool place, and you'll be rewarded with a bountiful yield of viable seeds.
Gallery
The Simplest Way To Save Your Own Calendula Seeds • Gardenary
Photo Credit by: bing.com /
How To Save Calendula Seeds - My Naturally Sweetened Life
Photo Credit by: bing.com /
How To Save Calendula Seed - BBC Gardeners World Magazine
Photo Credit by: bing.com / calendula seed graines savoir harvesting collecte semis cultiver jardins sanne quand
How To Collect Calendula Seeds To Save For Next Year | Calendula, Seeds
Photo Credit by: bing.com / calendula
Save Calendula Seeds – Crazy For Gardening
Photo Credit by: bing.com / calendula