What To Know
- Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Conduct a germination test by placing a few seeds on a damp paper towel and keeping them in a warm, dark place.
Kale, a nutrient-rich leafy green, is a staple in many healthy diets. While it can be grown from purchased seeds, harvesting seeds from your own kale plants offers numerous benefits, including saving money, preserving desirable traits, and promoting self-sufficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the detailed process of how to get kale seeds from plant, ensuring a successful seed-saving adventure.
Selecting the Right Kale Plants
The first step in harvesting kale seeds is selecting suitable parent plants. Choose healthy, vigorous kale plants that have not been treated with chemicals. Look for plants with desirable traits, such as disease resistance, high yield, and exceptional flavor.
Allowing the Kale Plants to Bolt
To produce seeds, kale plants need to go through a process called bolting. Bolting occurs when the plant produces a flower stalk and flowers. It typically happens when the plant is exposed to longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. Once the flower stalk emerges, allow the plant to continue growing and flowering.
Pollination
Kale is a self-fertilizing plant, meaning it can produce seeds without the help of insects or wind. However, cross-pollination can occur between different kale varieties, resulting in genetic diversity. To promote cross-pollination, plant multiple kale varieties near each other.
Harvesting the Seed Pods
As the kale flowers fade, seed pods will begin to form. These pods are initially green but will turn brown and dry as they mature. When the seed pods are completely dry and hard, they are ready to be harvested.
Separating the Seeds from the Pods
Once the seed pods have been harvested, it’s time to separate the seeds from the pods. This can be done by gently rubbing the pods between your hands over a container. The seeds will fall out, and the chaff (the dried remains of the pods) will be separated.
Cleaning and Drying the Seeds
After separating the seeds from the pods, clean them by removing any remaining chaff or debris. Spread the seeds on a clean sheet of paper or a fine-mesh sieve and gently blow away any remaining particles. Allow the seeds to dry thoroughly for several days in a warm, well-ventilated area.
Storing the Seeds
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the viability of kale seeds. Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. The ideal storage temperature is between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C). Seeds stored under these conditions can remain viable for up to four years.
Using the Kale Seeds
Once you have harvested and stored your kale seeds, they can be used to grow new kale plants. Sow the seeds directly in the garden in early spring or start them indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. Kale is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it prefers well-drained, fertile soil.
Tips for Successful Seed Harvesting
- Choose healthy, disease-resistant kale plants.
- Allow the plants to bolt and flower naturally.
- Encourage cross-pollination by planting multiple kale varieties.
- Harvest the seed pods when they are completely dry and brown.
- Separate the seeds from the pods gently to avoid damaging them.
- Clean and dry the seeds thoroughly before storing them.
- Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Test the viability of the seeds before planting them.
Final Note: The Rewards of Seed Saving
Harvesting kale seeds from plant is a rewarding experience that allows gardeners to save money, preserve desirable traits, and promote self-sufficiency. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully collect and store kale seeds that will produce vigorous and productive plants for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I save seeds from hybrid kale plants?
A: No, hybrid kale plants are bred to produce specific traits and will not produce true-to-type seeds.
Q: How do I know if my kale seeds are viable?
A: Conduct a germination test by placing a few seeds on a damp paper towel and keeping them in a warm, dark place. Viable seeds will germinate within a few days.
Q: Can I save seeds from kale plants that have been treated with pesticides?
A: It is not recommended to save seeds from kale plants that have been treated with pesticides, as residues may remain on the seeds.
Q: How long do kale seeds remain viable?
A: Properly stored kale seeds can remain viable for up to four years.
Q: Is it necessary to cross-pollinate kale plants?
A: While kale is self-fertilizing, cross-pollination promotes genetic diversity and can lead to healthier plants.
