How to Save Heliotrope Seeds
Heliotropes, members of the genus Heliotropium, are annuals prized for their clusters of unique, fragrant flowers. Most heliotrope cultivars offer flowers in shades of purple or blue, though rare cultivars may broaden the range of available colors. Although many gardeners are able to overwinter the frost-tender heliotrope indoors and heliotrope may re-seed itself in some parts of California, depending on the severity of the winter, new plantings may be necessary annually. To create an attractive display with heliotrope year after year without having to purchase new plants each spring, collect and store heliotrope seeds for germination in late winter or spring.
Cut off the heliotrope flower heads at the end of the growing season once the flowers are spent. Wait until the flower head has turned completely brown and dried.
Hold the plant material over a sheet of paper or container and roll the flower head between your hands to release the heliotrope's small black seeds. Collect many more seeds than planned plants or seedlings, as the heliotrope seed germination rate may be extremely low.
Dry the seeds out, if necessary. Keep the seeds out of direct light and in as dry an area as possible.
Place the seeds in an envelope, old pill bottle or jar. Make sure that the container is clean and dry before putting seeds in.
Store the seeds at room temperature in a dark, dry environment. Sow them the winter or spring following harvest, if possible, as seed viability decreases with storage time.
- Gardening With Heirloom Seeds; Lynn Coulter
- Minnesota Gardener's Guide; Melinda Myers
- The Complete Idiot's Guide to Seed Saving and Starting; Sheri Ann Richerson
Angela Ryczkowski is a professional writer who has served as a greenhouse manager and certified wildland firefighter. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in urban and regional studies.