HY:Drying seed
In a message dated 6/6/2003 7:26:33 PM Central Standard Time, ddbro@llano.net
writes:
> A lot of folks use paper cups to dry their seeds in.
Thought I would share a system I developed years ago that has always worked
for me. This system prevents spilling the seed.
I use regular envelopes, personal size. I collect pods daily. I write all
information on the envelope before I place the seeds inside. I write the field #
in the upper right hand corner, and in the center of the envelope I place the
full parentage (pollen parent x pollen parent). I also include the seed
count. I put one pod in each envelope, sometimes two if the cross is the same and
if they mature at the same time.
Then I seal the envelope! I place the envelopes on an envelope rack (any
office supply store). I shake and turn each envelope once a day. The seed dry
perfectly. I've noticed I don't have to shake as much now that I live in
air-conditioned splendor!
Once all the seed have been collected, I group the envelopes from each cross,
and sort all the envelopes (still in the rack) according to my personal
system. Then I place a permanent number in the upper left hand corner.
When none of the seeds 'rattle' in the envelope, I know I can quit shaking
them. Seeds always dry perfectly with this system and I don't have to worry
about mystery seed from dumping or spilling.
In late fall, I cut a diagonal chunk from the corner of the envelope, and
either transfer the seed to my palm or directly into the soil container. This is
the same method I use to extract seed from a purchased seed packet. The
permanent number on the envelope is the one used on the markers in the pots and any
future identification markers.
Betty W from South-central KY zone 6
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