How to Dry Nasturtium Seeds

Nasturtium seeds can easily be picked from the plant in late summer.

Nasturtiums are dependable garden flowers that bloom in vivid shades of orange, gold and yellow. The sturdy plants grow with little attention, even in adverse conditions -- they actually prefer poor soil. Nasturtiums are one of the easiest flowers to grow and a cinch to harvest. The harvested seeds can be dried and planted the following spring.

Things You'll Need

• Tray or large plate
• Waxed paper
• Small paper bag or glass jar

Instructions

1. Pick the green seeds from the nasturtium plants. The seeds will be about the size of large peas and will be hanging from the plants in groups of two or three. Nasturtium seeds do not develop in pods and often can be gathered from the ground under the plant.

2. Cover a tray or large plate with waxed paper. Spread the green nasturtium seeds in a single layer on the waxed paper.

3. Place the tray in a warm, dry, well-ventilated room. Allow the nasturtium seeds to dry until the seeds turn hard, brown and wrinkled. Shake the tray every day so the seeds will dry evenly. Drying may take two weeks or more. Don't rush. If the seeds are still green, they may later develop mold or mildew.

4. Place the dry nasturtium seeds in a small paper bag or a glass jar. Avoid placing the seeds in plastic, which won't allow air circulation.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're an adventurous culinary type, you can pickle nasturtium seeds in wine vinegar and use them in place of capers. Pickle the nasturtium seeds as soon as the seeds are harvested, while the seeds are still soft and green.

References

• Washington State University: Saving Seeds
• North Coast Journal: Gathering Seeds
• OregonLive.com: Pick Nasturtium Seeds for "Capers"