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How to Collect and Save Black-Eyed Susan Seeds
Introduction
Black-eyed Susans are cheerful, easy-to-grow flowers that add a touch of sunshine to any garden. Best of all, they’re free to propagate! By collecting and saving their seeds, you can enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year.
Collecting Seed Heads
The best time to collect black-eyed Susan seeds is in the fall, once the flowers have faded and the seed heads have dried. Choose healthy plants with full, plump seed heads.
Drying and Removing Seeds
- If the seed heads are still green, spread them out on a newspaper in a warm, dry place for a few weeks until they’re completely dry.
- Once the seed heads are dry, break them off the stems and place them in a glass jar.
- Close the lid and shake the jar vigorously to loosen the seeds.
Separating Seeds from Chaff
- Hold a sieve over a sheet of paper and pour the contents of the jar into it.
- The tiny black-eyed Susan seeds should fall through onto the paper, while the chaff (the lightweight plant material) will remain in the sieve.
Storing Seeds
- Place the seeds in a paper envelope and label it with the date and variety of black-eyed Susan.
- Store the envelope in a cool, dry place, such as a refrigerator or pantry.
- Seeds can be stored for up to three years.
Planting Seeds
- In the spring, sow the seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors in pots.
- Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist.
- Black-eyed Susans prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Thin the seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they’ve developed their first set of true leaves.
Tips for Success
- Collect seeds from healthy, vigorous plants.
- Allow the seed heads to dry completely before collecting the seeds.
- Store the seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain their viability.
- Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and provide them with plenty of sunlight.
Additional Information
- Black-eyed Susans are also known as brown-eyed Susans or gloriosas.
- They are native to North America and can be found in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides.
- Black-eyed Susans attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- The seeds of black-eyed Susans can be used to make tea, which is said to have medicinal properties.
Conclusion
Collecting and saving black-eyed Susan seeds is a simple and rewarding way to propagate these beautiful flowers. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy the beauty of black-eyed Susans in your garden for years to come.
