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Chris Collins on…saving seeds

Sowing the seeds of the future
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Chris lays out seeds to dry and pack away for next year

As the first tints of autumn begins to show in the trees, I think it’s fair to say it’s been a tough season for us gardeners. Thankfully, the excessive heat is reaching a conclusion now, and because us gardeners are an eternally optimistic bunch – there’s always something to get excited about for the season ahead.

For me, this is the time to start seed saving, my favourite subject! Firstly, let’s take a moment to be in awe of these little time capsules of DNA, that can go into statis, sometimes for huge periods of time until the ideal moment comes for them to burst into life. It’s no wonder plants have been around so long on our planet when they possess one of nature’s most remarkable talents. 

I believe saving seed and then growing them into plants is horticulture in its purest form. And I think it’s the most satisfying and rewarding practise there will ever be. 

Your seed saving kit 🔗

At this time of year, I’m never without my simple seed saving kit. This includes:

  • Seed envelopes
  • Labels
  • Tupperware
  • Secateurs or scissors

And, most importantly my eyes are peeled! It’s amazing what you can collect just walking down the road. Yesterday, I found hollyhocks, foxglove and aster where all bagged - and I’m keenly watching the developments on my own allotment and balcony. 

Celebrating 50 years of seed saving 🔗

This year is a special one, because the Heritage Seed Library (HSL) as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. This humble but incredibly important part of Garden Organic now houses 800-plus varieties of heritage seeds. It saves, protects and conserves vital DNA and biodiversity of the nation’s seed and long may it continue to do so. I know the people who read this blog are already staunch supporters of the HSL, but it does no harm to get out and tell all your friends and neighbours about us! And if you’re not a member, please join today and help us save more precious seeds.

My top 10 seed saving tips 🔗

  1. Always carry a collection kit (see above) – you never know when you might need it.
  2. Think about the plant’s seasonal cycles. An annual can be collected now and safely stored for next spring, a biennial, however, can be sown now for next year’s flowering.
  3. When picking plants for seed, always take time to pick healthy disease-free materials, on a dry day. Only pick the best.
  4. If collecting from the street or a park – get the gardener/owner’s permission first.
  5. If collecting wet seed, such as tomatoes give them a soak for a few days, removing the pulp and any inhibitors.
  6. Dry seed, such as runner beans can be hung or laid out in a cool area such as shed.
  7. Wildflower, hardy annuals and perennial seeds can be collected by laying the plants out on paper or a bed sheet, occasionally turning them over for a few weeks, gradually the seed will come free and can be collected.
  8. Always label and keep records of your seed saving – it’s easy to lose track.
  9. Once you’re happy you’ve successfully dried your seeds, store them in envelopes or seed packets at a cool temperature.
  10. Don’t forget about the comradery of the seed collecting world either! Look out for seed swaps (we’ll have an updated list coming soon!) And, you could even think about becoming a Seed Guardian.
     

Happy seed saving and happy birthday HSL!
Chris Collins