What Every Gardener Needs to Know About …

.. Propagating Seeds!You don’t have to spend a ton of money every year buying multiples of plants. If you’re trying to fill your garden, you may want to learn how to make the most of some of the plants you already have.

Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) with flowers and seed pods.

Some plants are easily propagated by seed. In fact plants such as pipevine can ONLY be propagated by seed. When gathering seeds, be sure to wait until the seeds are mature. Milkweed pods split open when the seeds are ready, but if you harvest too early, they’re not viable. Harvesting while the seeds are still attached to the pod, makes removing the seeds from the fibers easier. If the fiber is already expanded, simply put the seeds in a brown paper bag and give them some vigorous shakes. The seeds will detach and fall to the bottom of the bag and the fluff will be left on top. Once you have harvested the seeds, store them in a cool, dark place until you are ready to plant.Other plants, can be propagated by taking cuttings from an already mature plant. Try taking cuttings early in the day. This ensures your new cutting will be full of water and not wilted. Keep your new cuttings moist and away from harsh sunlight.