Collecting and storing impatiens seeds is a great way to keep your garden going year after year. You'll need to be a bit strategic about timing since the seed pods do have a reputation for being quite sensitive.
First, you'll want to monitor the plants closely as the flowers die back and the seed pods start to form. They’re ready to be harvested when they turn from green to a light tan color, but before they’ve started to open on their own. Wearing gloves can help you handle them gently since they can burst with even a light touch. A common method to avoid losing seeds is to place an organza bag or fine mesh around the pods as they mature. This way, when they burst, the seeds are contained.
For collecting, you can also carefully pinch the pod between your fingers to prevent it from exploding as you gently remove it from the plant. Doing this early in the morning when pods are more turgid can also help minimize the chance of bursting because they're often less sensitive at this time.
Once you've collected the seeds, it’s crucial to dry them properly to prevent mold. Spread them out on a paper towel or fine mesh screen in a dry, warm area out of direct sunlight for about a week. They need to be completely dry before storing.
For storage, use paper envelopes or small glass jars. Adding a silica gel packet can help control moisture levels. Store the seeds in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a fridge or a basement, where temperatures remain consistently low with low humidity.
Keeping your impatiens seeds dry during storage is critical for germination success next season. In fact, a study in Seed Science Research highlights that maintaining seeds at low moisture levels preserves their viability significantly longer.
By following these tips, you should have a good supply of viable seeds for the following spring and can continue to enjoy your impatiens without the need to buy new seeds annually. Happy gardening!