How to Collect Nasturtium Seeds

Collecting seeds from your annual nasturtiums allows you to regrow these brightly colored annuals each summer without having to purchase fresh seed stock each spring. Nasturtiums blossom from spring through fall in mild climates, or they can provide cold-season color in areas with few winter frosts. Once the flowers are done blooming, they begin producing seeds. Collect the seeds from non-hybrid or heirloom varieties to ensure they are viable and true to the parent plant.

Bowl
Tray
Newspaper
Airtight jar

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the nasturtiums for pod formation at the base of the old flower once the petals begin to wilt and fall off. The seed pods are approximately the size of a small pea and are born in clusters of two to four pods.
- 2
  Cut off the seed head once the pods begin to dry and change color from green to tan or light brown. Place the seed heads in a bowl as you collect them so you don't lose any that fall from the stem.
- 3
  Separate the seed pods from the stem. Discard the stems and any other plant material.
- 4
  Line a tray with newspaper. Spread the seeds out in a single layer and place them in a warm, well-ventilated room. Allow the seeds to finish drying for one week.
- 5
  Place the dried seeds inside an airtight jar. Label the jar with the nasturtium variety or color and the year harvested. Store in a cool, dark place until you are ready to replant in spring.

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