Guide to Harvesting and Storing Coleus Seeds

AloeAmigo

I've been growing coleus for a while now, and I'm starting to think about collecting seeds for future planting. I've noticed the flowers on my plants and assume that's where the seeds come from, but I'm a bit unsure about the best process to harvest them effectively. When is the right time to collect coleus seeds from the plant? How do you know they're mature enough? And once you have them, do you need to dry them or do anything special before storing them? I'd love any tips or tricks others have learned from experience. Thanks!

UrbanLeafLover

I've had some experience with collecting coleus seeds, and it's actually quite rewarding! You're right that the seeds come from the flowers. The key is to let the flowers fully mature and dry on the plant, which usually means waiting until they turn brown and start to look a bit crispy. That's the best time to collect them.

When the flower heads are ready, gently pinch them off and place them in a paper bag. This lets them further dry and ensures that any seeds that fall out are easily collected. I usually keep them in the bag for a week or so to make sure they're really dry, which helps prevent mold during storage.

Before storing, you'll want to separate the seeds from the flower debris by lightly rolling the flower heads between your fingers. Once you've got the seeds, keep them in a cool, dry place like an airtight container with some silica gel packs if you have them.

It's been a great way to ensure a steady supply of coleus year after year. Plus, collecting seeds feels like a fun little victory at the end of the growing season!

UrbanOasis

I've been through this process too, and it's pretty straightforward once you know what to look for. Wait until the coleus flower spikes turn brown and dry out on the plant. That's when the seeds are mature. Just clip them off and put them in a paper bag to catch any falling seeds. Give them a week to fully dry before you clean them.

For storage, keep the seeds in a cool, dry place, like a sealed envelope in a jar. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. It's worth the effort—starting your next batch from seeds you've harvested feels rewarding!