Harvesting Tree Collard Seeds for Future Planting

Tree collards, also known as tree kale or walking stick kale, are a perennial vegetable that can be grown from seeds. Harvesting tree collard seeds allows you to save and propagate your own plants for future planting. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to harvest tree collard seeds:

1. Selecting the Right Plant

Choose a healthy and mature tree collard plant for seed harvesting. Look for plants that have reached their full growth and have started to produce flowers. Healthy plants with vibrant foliage and strong stems are more likely to produce high-quality seeds.

2. Observing the Flowers

Monitor the plant closely to identify when the flowers start to bloom. Tree collard flowers are small and usually yellow or white in color. The flowers will eventually develop into seed pods.

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3. Monitoring Seed Pod Development

Once the flowers have bloomed, keep a close eye on the seed pods. The pods will start to form at the base of the flowers and gradually grow larger. As the pods mature, they will turn brown and become dry and brittle.

4. Harvesting the Seed Pods

When the seed pods have fully matured, carefully cut them from the plant using a pair of sharp scissors or pruners. Place the harvested seed pods in a clean container or paper bag to prevent the seeds from scattering.

5. Extracting the Seeds

To extract the seeds from the pods, gently crush or break them open. Inside, you will find small, round seeds. Separate the seeds from any remaining plant material or debris.

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6. Drying the Seeds

Spread the extracted seeds in a single layer on a clean, dry surface. Allow them to air dry for about a week or until they are completely dry. Stir or turn the seeds occasionally to ensure even drying.

7. Storing the Seeds

Once the seeds are dry, transfer them to airtight containers such as glass jars or seed envelopes. Label the containers with the date and variety of the tree collard seeds. Store the containers in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain seed viability.

By following these steps, you can successfully harvest and store tree collard seeds for future planting. Remember to choose healthy plants, monitor the flower and seed pod development, and properly dry and store the seeds to ensure their viability.

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Keywords: collard, flowers, harvesting, plants, future, planting, healthy, containers, harvest