Quick summary
African marigolds , with theirvibrant bloomsandaromatic foliage , are a staple in garden worldwide . Preserving their beauty for future season requires proper seed harvesting techniques . This elaborate templet will manoeuvre you through the essential steps to insure successful African marigold source collection .
Timing the Harvest
The key tosuccessful seed harvestingis timing . Allow the marigold tofully maturebefore collecting the seeds . The flowers will start to wilt and turn brown , and theseed headswill start to dry out out . This typically take place 4 - 6 weeks after the last bloom .
Selecting the Right Seed Heads
pick out healthy , disease - freeseed head word . Avoid any that appear moldy or discolor . The seed heads should be to the full dry and chocolate-brown , with the seeds easily detachable .
Removing the Seeds
Gently remove theseed head from the plant . Hold the source head over a container and shake it smartly . The seed will fall out easily . instead , you’re able to use a pair of scissors grip to rationalize theseed head openand extract the seeds .
Cleaning the Seeds
Once the seeded player are collect , they necessitate to be scavenge . Remove any junk or chaff that may be present . you could do this bygently blowingon the seeds or using a o.k. - net screen .
Drying the Seeds
decently dry out the seeds is crucial for their longevity . spread out the seminal fluid out on apaper towelor a mesh tray in a well - ventilate area . Protect them fromdirect sunshine , as this can damage the seeds . provide the seeds todry completelyfor several days .
Storing the Seeds
Store the dried seeds in anairtight containerin a cool , dry place . The seed canremain viablefor up to 3 years if stored properly .
Sowing the Seeds
When the fourth dimension comes to sow the seeds , machinate the dirt by loose it and adding some compost . Sow theseeds shallowly , about 1/4inch recondite . Water thesoil lightlyand keep it damp but not torpid .
Germination and Care
African marigold seed typically evolve within 7 - 14 sidereal day . Once theseedlings come forth , supply them with plenty of sunlight , water , and fertilizer .
Tips for Maximizing Seed Yield
Troubleshooting
The Bottom Line: Preserving the Beauty of African Marigolds
harvest home African marigold semen is arewarding experiencethat allows you to enjoy the peach of these flowers for years to come . By following the pace outlined in this guide , you could successfully collect , clean , dry , and store African marigold seeds , check a vibrant andfragrant additionto your garden for time of year to descend .
What People Want to Know
Q : Can Icollect seedsfrom all varieties of African marigolds?A : Yes , you cancollect seedsfrom any variety of African marigold . Q : How long do African marigold seeds remain viable?A : by rights store seedscanremain viablefor up to 3 old age . Q : What is the upright time to sow African marigold seeds?A : The best sentence tosow seedsis in the natural spring or early summertime . Q : How deep should I sow African marigold seeds?A : Sow theseeds shallowly , about 1/4 inch deep . Q : How often should I water African marigolds?A : Water theplants on a regular basis , especially during wry catamenia . Q : How much sunshine doAfrican marigoldsneed?A : African marigoldsneedfull sunfor optimal growth and ejaculate yield . Q : Can Icollect seedsfrom diseased or moldy marigolds?A : No , avoid collecting seedsfrom pathologic or mouldy marigolds .