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Re: Geraniums

Loren Russell wrote:
> 
> On Fri, 21 Mar 1997, GJM wrote:
> 
> > How does one collect seeds from geraniums?  Purchased Raspberry Ripple
> 
> Martha, V.E..R...Y C..A..R.E.F...U.LL.Y!
> 
>         Actually, it's easy to get seed at least from species geranium
> [the hybrids are often sterile].  You just have to watch the explosive
> little cranes-bills, and pluck them off into a paper bag when they start
> to turn brown.  Since geraniums typically flower over a long season, the
> seeds ripen over a long period.  Keep your bag or envelope handy on your
> garden walks.
> 
>         To extract the seed: let everything in the bag dry, then roll
> over it with a rolling pin.  Many of the spring-loaded seed appendages
> [carpels, actually] will come free, looking rather like a sperm or
> tadpole.  The large seeds are contained in a socket in the head of this
> device. A lot of the seed heads won't have exploded, but come apart
> easily when you pick at them..
> 
>         You can easily separate the seeds that come loose by winnowing
> debris in the bottom of the bag, or just pick through it on white paper
> in a good light.
> 
> Loren Russell, Corvallis, Oregon

Thanks, Loren.

Martha
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