Pansies (Viola species) are cherished garden flowers known for their vibrant colors and distinctive “faces.” While they often self-sow, gardeners can save seeds to ensure a steady supply of specific varieties for the following season. This allows for the preservation of desirable traits and provides an economical way to propagate these popular annuals or biennials. Collecting and storing pansy seeds requires attention to detail to ensure the seeds are fully mature before preservation.
Recognizing the Right Time to Harvest
The process of collecting pansy seeds begins after the initial flower fades. Following pollination, the ovary at the base of the bloom swells, developing into a small, green seed capsule. Stop deadheading flowers intended for seed collection, allowing them to complete their reproductive cycle.
As the seeds ripen, the capsule changes color from bright green to pale yellow and eventually a dry, papery brown. This signals that the seeds inside have fully matured and are developing their dark brown or black color. A fully ripe pod often stands upright or at a right angle to the stem, indicating it is nearly ready to open.
The final stage is dehiscence, where the dried capsule splits open to eject the seeds. Collectors must harvest just before this occurs. Waiting until the pod is fully dried and slightly cracked, but before the seeds have been scattered, offers the best window for a successful harvest.
Step-by-Step Seed Collection
Successfully collecting pansy seeds requires anticipating when the ripe pod will dehisce. A practical method involves placing a small, breathable mesh bag, such as fine muslin or pantyhose, over the developing capsule once it turns yellow-brown. Secure the fabric loosely around the stem just below the pod using a twist tie or elastic band, creating a catchment system for when the pod splits open.
For pods that are dry and brown but have not yet burst, use small scissors to snip the stem just below the capsule. Perform this step while holding the pod over a container or paper to capture any falling seeds. Once removed, take the pods indoors to a clean, dry surface for processing.
To extract the seeds, carefully open the dried, three-part capsule with your fingers. Separate the small, dark, tear-drop shaped seeds from the remaining papery material, known as chaff. Discard any pale or white seeds, as these are immature and will not germinate reliably.
Curing and Long-Term Storage
Post-collection treatment, or curing, reduces the moisture content of the seeds and prevents mold or fungal growth during storage. Spread the collected seeds in a single layer on a clean, absorbent surface, like a paper plate or paper towel. Place them in a cool, dry location out of direct sunlight. This curing period typically lasts one to two weeks, allowing the seeds to fully dry and stabilize their moisture level.
Once dry, transfer the seeds into long-term storage containers. Small paper envelopes or coin envelopes are suitable for the seeds, as they allow for air exchange while preventing loss. These packets should then be placed inside an airtight container, such as a glass jar or sealed plastic box, to protect the contents from humidity and pests.
Optimal storage involves a cool, dark environment to maintain viability, with a stable temperature between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit recommended. Storing the sealed jar in a refrigerator provides this consistent temperature, extending the shelf life of the seeds up to two years or more. Label each packet with the pansy variety and the date of harvest for proper tracking.