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Step 1
Accurately identify the flowers from you wish to save seeds. Hybrid varieties will not reproduce true to form. You may get some interesting varieties. Some may even approximate the original, but hybrids are a combination of the genetics of two or more distinct plants. Expect the unexpected.
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Step 2
Allow the healthiest plant of a particular species to go to seed. You do not have to allow all the blooms to go to seed. Depending on the seeding of the particular flower in question, one or two blooms may produce hundreds of seeds. Marigold, daisies, pansies, and cone flower all produce hundreds of seeds with one bloom.
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Step 3
Pick the seed pod before it breaks open and store it in a dry well ventilated area until it is ready to burst. Most mature seeds will be dark brown or black. Seeds that are white or light green have not yet matured. Larger seeds have a wider range in color when mature, but should be firm not soft to the touch.
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Step 4
Collect the seeds in small envelopes or snack size storage bags. Old film containers or medicine bottles also work well. Be sure to wash and dry containers before using them for seed collection.
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Step 5
Label the storage bag with the name of the flower, color (if applicable) and the year and date. Include a note card with any special growing requirements you have observed.
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Step 6
Store collected seeds in an airtight container that is free of moisture and will keep out insects and other pests.
