Calla Lily Seed Harvesting: A Comprehensive Guide to Collecting and Preserving Seeds

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Introduction

Calla lilies, renowned for their trumpet-shaped blooms and elegant foliage, are a beloved addition to gardens. While often propagated via rhizomes, harvesting seeds allows for genetic diversity and the creation of new varieties. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of calla lily seed harvesting, ensuring successful collection and preservation.

When to Harvest

Calla lily seeds are ready for harvesting when the flower spathes have wilted and turned brown. This typically occurs in late summer to early fall.

Selecting Seed Pods

* Choose pods that are plump and dry.
* Avoid pods with any signs of damage or discoloration.
* Select pods from healthy plants with desirable characteristics.

Extracting Seeds

1. Carefully open the seed pod by gently squeezing or using a sharp knife.
2. Extract the small, black, and shiny seeds from inside.
3. Remove any debris or chaff from the seeds.

Cleaning and Preparing Seeds

1. Rinse the seeds thoroughly with water to remove any remaining debris.
2. Allow the seeds to air dry completely on a paper towel or mesh screen.
3. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place in a paper envelope or sealed plastic bag.

Storing Seeds

* Label the seed packet with the variety, harvest date, and any other relevant information.
* Store the seeds at a temperature between 32-40°F (0-4°C).
* Use the seeds within one to two years for optimal germination rates.

Tips for Successful Seed Harvesting

* Water the plants regularly during the seed development period.
* Deadhead spent blooms to encourage seed production.
* Protect the seed pods from excessive moisture or cold temperatures.

  • Consider using a seed-saving net or organza bag to prevent seed loss due to wind or birds.

    Benefits of Harvesting Calla Lily Seeds

    * Increased Genetic Diversity: Seed harvesting introduces new genetic material, leading to variations in plant size, flower color, and blooming time.
    * Cost-Effective: Collecting seeds is a low-cost method of propagating calla lilies compared to purchasing new plants.
    * Preservation of Varieties: Seed harvesting ensures the preservation of endangered or rare varieties.
    * Creates Unique Hybrids: Crossing different varieties through seed harvesting can result in novel hybrids with desirable traits.

    Troubleshooting

    * No Seed Production: Ensure the plants were properly pollinated and received adequate water during seed development.
    * Moldy or Discolored Seeds: Discard moldy or discolored seeds as they may not germinate.
    * Low Germination Rates: Use fresh seeds and follow proper storage techniques to maintain high germination rates.
    * Seedlings Not True to Type: Seedlings may not inherit all the characteristics of the parent plant, especially when cross-pollination occurs.

    Conclusion

    Harvesting calla lily seeds is a rewarding process that allows gardeners to preserve and diversify their collections. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully collect, prepare, and store calla lily seeds for future use. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating new varieties and witnessing the beauty of these elegant blooms for years to come!

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