no pictures of seed pods in mesh bags
I use one bag per pod .... the bags are often too small for 2 .....
just slip the pod in the bag ..opening of bag towards stem tip
secure it with a twist tie
seed pods -
plants need to reach 7-8 years old ....
after flowering, do not prune or trim-up plants ..seed pod production wont happen
water and fertilize as usual
flowers must undergo pollination - either by self pollination (wind), cross pollination, insect pollination or hand pollination
a week or so after flowering, a pair of seed pods form at the end of single stem tips (where flower clusters were)
seed pods take about 70 days to mature ....
seed pods reach about 5-8" in length -
seed pods will change in color as they mature - from green to a molted purplish brown
near the end of that 70 days ...seed pods will begin to split open - the shell of the seed pod peels back releasing seed (this is a very slow process)
once the split appears .... cover the entire seed pod with a plastic mesh bag that allows air to pass through freely....
the type of mesh bags that is often used for loose produce at the grocery store...used for: bulk garlic, new potatoes, onions & avocados (and some cheese)
collect the seed ....store in something that air can circulate - but not blow the seed out - allow seed to air dry for several weeks (fluff up) -
carefully remove the tufts of bristles ......once dry, the tufts will snap off with a slight twist
carefully fold the clean seed in a paper towel ....
place in mason type jar ....
store in dark, cool, dry place ....refrigeration not necessary ...
wait to spring to sow
