Do Matthiola Incana Have Viable Seeds?

Timing

• Stock flowers emerge in late spring and persist until midsummer, when they begin to fade and ripen into seed heads, or fruit. The slender, flattened fruit holds the seeds tightly and won't spontaneously split open like many other flower species, so they can be left to ripen on the plant. Wait until the flowers have completely fallen and the fruit has ripened to a solid yellowish brown before gathering the seeds. Stop watering the plant at least one week before gathering the seeds because moisture will make them more prone to rotting.

Seed Harvest and Processing

• Stock seeds require very little processing to maintain their viability during storage. However, they must be thoroughly dried to limit the chances of bacterial or fungal growth. Snip off the seed heads at the base using clean pruning shears and place them on a large piece of window screen. The seeds are small and may fall through the screen, so spread a sheet or small tarp underneath to catch any fallen seeds. Shake the seed heads periodically to knock loose the flat, pale brown seeds. Dry the seeds in a warm, shady spot outdoors for one week, turning them daily to ensure even drying.

Storage

• As with all seeds, stock seeds are susceptible to damage caused by moisture, heat and light. Proper storage techniques are vital to maintaining the integrity and viability of the seed. Opaque, airtight containers such as vitamin bottles or cobalt jars are ideal storage vessels because they keep out moisture and light, although paper envelopes will also work because they are breathable and allow moisture to evaporate. Label the container clearly with the type of seed and the year, then place them in a cool, dry spot indoors. Don't keep any stored seed in the kitchen or bathroom because the warmth and humidity will degrade them.

Seed Treatment and Germination

• Even carefully dried and stored stock seeds must be pretreated before sowing to break their dormancy and to help eliminate seed-borne illnesses. Soak the seeds in warm water for 10 minutes to cleanse and soften the seed coat. Heat the water to around 130 degrees Fahrenheit, which will feel moderately warm to the touch but not scalding hot. Remove the seeds from the water and let them drain for five minutes before sowing. The seeds take roughly one to three weeks to germinate at temperatures of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and another eight weeks to grow before transplant.