You can definitely collect seeds from Verbena bonariensis. In fact, it’s a great way to propagate this beautiful plant and expand your garden without having to spend money on buying new plants.
To collect seeds from Verbena bonariensis, you will need to wait until the plant has finished flowering and the seed heads have formed. These seed heads are small clusters of tiny black seeds that can easily be spotted on the plant.
Gently pinch or cut off the seed heads from the plant, making sure to collect them in a container or paper bag to prevent the seeds from scattering. It’s a good idea to do this on a dry day when the seed heads are fully matured and dry.
Once you have collected the seed heads, you can either store them as they are or separate the seeds from the seed heads. To separate the seeds, you can simply rub the seed heads between your fingers to release the tiny seeds. Be careful not to damage the seeds in the process.
After you have collected and separated the seeds, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their viability. Place the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container or envelope. You can also add a desiccant packet or some dry rice to absorb any excess moisture and keep the seeds dry.
When it’s time to plant the seeds, you can start them indoors or sow them directly in the garden. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in small pots or trays filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Press the seeds lightly into the soil, but do not cover them as they need light to germinate.
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and place the pots or trays in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within a couple of weeks, and once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, you can transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
If sowing directly in the garden, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them lightly with soil. Water gently to settle the soil and keep it moist until the seeds germinate.
It’s worth noting that while collecting seeds from Verbena bonariensis is a great way to propagate the plant, the resulting plants may not be identical to the parent plant. Cross-pollination can occur, leading to slight variations in flower color and other characteristics. However, this can also add diversity and interest to your garden.
Collecting seeds from Verbena bonariensis is a simple and rewarding way to propagate this beautiful plant. Whether you choose to start the seeds indoors or sow them directly in the garden, with proper care and attention, you can enjoy an abundance of these lovely flowers in your garden.
