There are two types of methods of storing seeds: short-term storage and long-term storage.
Short-term storage:
Also known as open storage because seeds are placed in a container or envelope that permits air to enter through. Seeds in this type of storage should stored where the temperature (F) and humidity levels should not exceed 100. Storing seeds at about 90F will rapidly reduce their viability. If done properly seeds can last a couple seasons and at most no more than 3 years.
Long-term storage:
During long-term storage, saved seeds stay viable for longer. There are several factors in achieving a successful long-term storage method. The temperature and humidity must remain low, it must be in a seal container, and must be between 35 - 38 F. If you're going to freeze the seeds the temperature must remain at 0F or lower and humidity must remain very low. If done properly seeds can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years.
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The milkweed species is native to North America. In almost every state in the U.S., you can find at least one local milkweed species. They are extremely important to the monarch butterfly population because milkweed is the only host plant on which monarchs will lay their eggs because the leaves of the milkweed are the only thing the larvae will consume. Butterfly milkweed should be planted in spring after the last frost and will be fully mature by the summer. To save the seeds, wait for a dry day and collect the seeds from the open seed pods. Then let fully dry for a couple of days. |
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Sunflowers are native to the Americas. All sunflower seeds are edible, and they are popularly used for seed oils or to roast and then eat. They are typically planted in early spring, after the first frost, and they should be mature by summer and will live through the fall. To harvest, it's best to do so on a dry day. Wait until the leaves start to wilt, then cut off the head, remove the seeds, and allow the seeds to dry out completely for a few days. |
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Garlic chives are considered are part of the allium family, are edible and are classified as an herb. They are not native to the U.S. but rather to Southeast Asia and is typically used as an ornamental plant in the U.S., but used in Chinese herbal medicine. It is recommended to plant garlic chives in early spring after the weather starts to warm up (in colder climates like here in New York).
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Pawpaws are native to the east of North America and can grow anywhere between southern Canada to northern Florida. They can also be found as far as the mid-west! It takes about two years for the pawpaw to make a strong root system, and after they start growing rapidly. Their fruit starts ripening in late summer and peaks in September and October. To grow pawpaws by seed, they need to go into dormancy first, and it's recommended to keep them moist with peat moss (or paper towel) in a ziplock bag in your fridge for a few months. Then take them out (and place them in peatmoss and soil, also in a ziplock bag) to start the germination process. They can be planted in well-draining soil after they begin to sprout, and most people start them indoors. Later, you can transplant outside. During initial planting, make sure the soil is warm, moist, and in full or partial sun. |
This dogwood is non-native to the U.S. and is very popular to plant in many urban environments. There are varieties native to the U.S., however Kousa Dogwood (Cornus Kousa) is native to China, Japan, and Korea. What's super interesting about this plant is that not all of the fruit it bears contains seeds. The fruit is also edible. You can find this tree on campus in front of Metz!
These Jalapenos were harvested at the Colavita center as well as my own personal garden. Remember to wear gloves when handling spicy peppers! When harvesting seeds from peppers (in general) make sure the seeds are clean and let them to sit out to dry for a few days until completely dry.
The apple's DNA is so abundant that you can't grow the same apple from seed twice. Typically, they are grafted. However if you want a nice treat in the fall this apple tree is right next to Angell Hall!
Nicotiana is native to the southwest of North America. It's a species of tobacco, also commonly known as Indian tobacco, and is planted in spring after the last frost. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface and keep it moist. It should germinate between 10 - 20 days.
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