08/16/2026
It's time to save garden seeds.
FREE seed drying trays while supply lasts.
Saving seeds for next year involves choosing open-pollinated varieties, harvesting at the right time, and storing them in cool, dry conditions. Follow the core guidelines from the University of Minnesota Extension to successfully collect and store your garden seeds.
Selection and Harvesting
Open-pollinated plants: Select heirloom or open-pollinated varieties instead of hybrids, because hybrids will not grow true to the parent plant.
Maturity: Let fruits or flower heads fully ripen and dry on the plant when possible (such as crispy, brown zinnia heads or mature pods).
Dry collection: Harvest seeds only on a dry day to prevent excess moisture and mold growth.
Drying and Processing
Paper bags: Place harvested seed heads inside open brown paper bags to finish drying in a cool, dark room for about a week.
Clean: Separate the true seeds from chaff, petals, and pulp by hand or by gently crushing dry pods and shaking the bag.
Labeling: Write the exact plant variety and the date of harvest on each storage
Storage Guidelines
Air-tight containers: Seal clean, dry seeds tightly in glass jars or small envelopes.
Cool temperatures: Keep containers in a cool, dark location, ideally between 32°F and 41°F like a refrigerator.
Moisture control: Add a small desiccant packet, silica gel, or a teaspoon of powdered milk wrapped in a tissue inside the main storage container to absorb remaining humidity
