What To Know
- If the seeds are still attached to the pod, you can spread the pods out on a piece of paper and allow them to dry completely before removing the seeds.
- Place the seeds in a fine-mesh sieve and gently shake them to separate the seeds from the chaff.
- In the spring, sow the hollyhock seeds in a seedbed or directly in the garden.
Hollyhocks, with their towering spires of vibrant blooms, are a beloved addition to any garden. Their showy flowers not only attract pollinators but also provide an opportunity to perpetuate their beauty through seed saving. Harvesting hollyhock seeds is a simple yet rewarding task that ensures the continuation of these stately plants in your garden.
When to Harvest Hollyhock Seeds
The ideal time to harvest hollyhock seeds is when the seedpods have turned brown and papery. This typically occurs in late summer or early fall. The seeds should be fully mature and easy to remove from the pod.
Identifying Ripe Hollyhock Seedpods
Ripe hollyhock seedpods are easily recognizable by their dry, brown appearance. The pods will have split open slightly, revealing the black or dark brown seeds inside. Avoid harvesting seedpods that are still green or soft, as the seeds may not be fully developed.
Harvesting the Seeds
To harvest the seeds, gently squeeze the ripe seedpods to release the seeds. You can collect the seeds in a paper bag or envelope. If the seeds are still attached to the pod, you can spread the pods out on a piece of paper and allow them to dry completely before removing the seeds.
Cleaning the Seeds
Once you have collected the seeds, it’s important to clean them to remove any debris or chaff. Place the seeds in a fine-mesh sieve and gently shake them to separate the seeds from the chaff. You can also use a gentle stream of air to blow away the chaff.
Drying the Seeds
After cleaning the seeds, spread them out on a paper towel or newspaper and allow them to dry for several days in a warm, dry place. This will help to prevent the seeds from molding or rotting.
Storing the Seeds
Once the seeds are completely dry, store them in a cool, dry place. You can use a paper envelope, a plastic bag, or an airtight container. Be sure to label the container with the variety of hollyhock and the date harvested. Hollyhock seeds can remain viable for up to three years when stored properly.
Growing Hollyhocks from Seeds
In the spring, sow the hollyhock seeds in a seedbed or directly in the garden. Hollyhocks prefer well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. The seeds will typically germinate within 10-14 days.
Tips for Successful Seed Harvesting
- Choose healthy, vigorous plants to harvest seeds from.
- Avoid harvesting seeds from plants that have been treated with pesticides or herbicides.
- Harvest seeds from multiple plants to ensure genetic diversity.
- Store the seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain their viability.
- Label the seeds with the variety and date harvested.
Harvesting Hollyhock Seeds for Different Purposes
- For planting: Harvest seeds from open-pollinated hollyhocks to maintain the variety’s characteristics.
- For hybridization: Harvest seeds from different varieties of hollyhocks to create new hybrids.
- For seed exchange: Share seeds with other gardeners to promote plant diversity.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the best way to store hollyhock seeds?
A: Store hollyhock seeds in a cool, dry place in a paper envelope, plastic bag, or airtight container. Label the container with the variety and date harvested.
Q: How long do hollyhock seeds remain viable?
A: Hollyhock seeds can remain viable for up to three years when stored properly.
Q: Can I save seeds from double-flowered hollyhocks?
A: Yes, you can save seeds from double-flowered hollyhocks, but the resulting plants may not be true to type. Double-flowered hollyhocks are often sterile or produce fewer seeds.
Q: Why are my hollyhock seedpods not opening?
A: Hollyhock seedpods may not open if the weather is too humid or if the plants are not receiving enough sunlight.
Q: Can I sow hollyhock seeds in the fall?
A: Yes, you can sow hollyhock seeds in the fall in mild climates. The seeds will overwinter and germinate in the spring.
