How to Harvest Seeds From a Siberian Iris

Harvest seeds from your Siberian irises to start new plants. Irises are easy to propagate from root division, making this the predominant method of propagation. Starting irises from seed does take longer, usually two years from seed germination to flowering, but the process of collecting and starting seeds has its own reward. Siberian irises bloom in summer, usually between May and June. Seedpods form after the flowers fade, ripening for harvest in September and October.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• Paper bag
• Jar with lid
• Label

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Leave the seed pods to dry naturally on the Siberian iris plant. Wait to harvest until the seedpods dry and begin to split open.

   • 2

     Cut the seedpod from the Siberian iris plant and place it in a paper bag.

   • 3

     Remove the seedpods on a table or other flat surface. Pull the seedpods apart and remove any visible worms. Pull out all plant debris and seedpod parts.

   • 4

     Place the seeds in a jar and put a lid on it. Label the jar with the date and the name of the plant.

   • 5

     Store Siberian iris seeds at 32 to 40 degrees F for up to one month and then prepare to germinate them.