How to Get Seeds Off Marigold Flowers

Marigolds' reputation for garden simplicity doesn't stop at planting and growing. Marigold seeds are one of the simplest seeds to collect and and save. For gardeners who have never tried collecting flower seeds, marigolds (Tagetes) are the perfect beginning. Because they are annuals, they create seeds every year, which lets you collect fresh seeds every summer for the next planting season. Seed saving is fun, saves money, and lets you share your garden bounty with friends.

Things You'll Need

• Mature marigold flowerheads
• Container
• Garden scissors
• Newspaper or shallow, cardboard boxes
• Small paper bag
• Blank envelopes

Instructions

1. Make sure the flowerheads are fully mature. When preparing to collect marigold seeds, keep in mind that the flowerheads shouldn't be harvested too early. The nourishment necessary for next season's plant growth is stored in flower seeds. Flowerheads also shouldn't be harvested so late that the seeds are lost due to the head "shattering," which is when the seeds naturally fall away from the plant. Marigold flowerheads should be collected either just as the flower begins to shatter or when the petals and head look dry and crisp.

2. Hold an open plastic container or basket under each mature flowerhead. Cut or break the heads off of the flower stems and let them fall into the container. If more than one variety of marigold is being collected, use a different type of container for each variety so they don't become mixed up before you can label and store them.

3. Space the flowerheads apart onto spread-out newspaper or in cardboard boxes to dry. It's important not to just leave them in the collection box to dry, because they'll become moldy if not given enough air circulation. Leave them on the paper or in the boxes for 2 to 4 weeks to thoroughly dry.

4. When the flowerheads feel bone-dry, hold them by the bottom end (where the stem was attached) over a paper bag. Shake them until all of the seeds fall off the flowerhead and into the bag.

5. Write the names of each variety of marigold as well as the date onto the front of blank envelopes. Pour loose seed into the envelopes for storage. Keep the seed envelopes in a cool, shady place until planting season. Use a different envelope for each seed variety you've collected.

Tips & Warnings

• The desirable marigold seeds to collect and save are those that are "open-pollinated." These seeds will breed "true." In other words, when the seeds are planted, the plants will have the same traits as the mother plant. Some open-pollinated varieties are French Marigold, Starfire Signet, Crackerjack, Jolly Jester and Tiger Eyes.

• If the seeds from a hybrid are collected (those grown commercially), the plants resulting from the seed are unpredictable and never breed true.

References

• The New Seed-Starter's Handbook; Nancy Bubel; 1988
• Rodale's All New Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening; 1992