How to Know If a Seed Is Ripe?
Harvesting seeds is an important part of the planting process. Re-planting your harvested seeds lets you create a cycle of growth and picking that costs very little, monetarily. However, you must pick the seeds when they are ripe or they won't grow at all. Knowing when seeds are ripe is a process that varies depending on the plant. There is a basic inspection process you can use on plants and seeds to gauge for seed ripeness. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Purchase a plant and seed guidebook that discuss each type of plant and seed in depth. Use this as a guide during your inspection process.
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Inspect the plant to look for signs of fruit ripeness, which will vary from plant to plant. For example, pepper seeds are ripe when the fruit is fully colored and just starting to shrivel. The seeds of a tomato are ripest when the fruit is turning tender and in full color.
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Pick one of the plant seed pods, such as an apple, and take it into your house. Wash it off and cut it open with a knife. Use a knife to scoop out the seeds inside.
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Check the seed color to determine whether the seeds are ripe, which is generally when they a darker color, such as brown. Use your seed guidebook for each individual plant if you are unsure.
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Pick and inspect a new seed pod every three to four days to check for seed ripeness until they are ready to be picked.
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Tips & Warnings
Seeds are naturally dispersed when they are ripened, such as when acorns fall to the ground or when dandelions turn white and blow in the wind. Use this fact as a guide to checking for your seeds' ripeness.
Seeds are often at their ripest when the pod is starting to shrivel, which can ruin fruits and vegetables. Pick your fruits when they are ripe and let your seeds air dry in a safe place for a few days. This helps save your fruit and ripen your seeds.
References
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