#SeedSaving

[startedwithaseed]

Peas!

Pea plants are amazing. They're a plant that feels to me like they are desperately keen to grow

An escaped seed must have sprouted, having dropped from the sheet holding a bunch of drying pea pods above it.

They're really beautiful plants, with delicate flowers and tendrils that grip and wind onto any support they can find, and they taste bloody great, especially the first pick of sugar snaps right at the start of the season. They are early cropping, and apparently the flowers cannot be fertilised (and therefore won't produce peas) above 30 degrees.

Being legumes, they fix nitrogen and so do not require lots of added inputs to the soil. The soil should be well draining though, to prevent root rot. They can be eaten at any stage - eat the shoots if you're fancy, or dry them and make pease porrige like the did in the middle ages! In fact, when they were introduced in the 1600s in Britain as the fresh vegetable (and not just a dried more like a bean) they were said to cause such a stir that people become manically addicted...

So they can be dried for storage for eating, but also of course for saving the seed. Drying and shelling peas for seed was my introduction into the world of seed saving. A perfect intro - they make it so easy for us! Simply leaving a few of the forgotten pods on the plant as long as possible, to swell up and dry, and you'll have your seed supply for next years sowing.

Dried wrinkly peas from a sugar snap variety. They are said to be properly dry when you could bite into one and not leave tooth marks.

On a larger scale, marking off a section to not harvest from at all works best, although tricky to resist the plumper pods in the forbidden section. If there are any particularly unhealthy plants, they can be removed (a process called rouging) at any point to try and avoid passing on these trait.

Peas are mostly self fertile, having "perfect" flowers (which just mean the flowers contain both the pistil and the stamen, allowing them to fertilize themselves). This means they are unlikely to cross, although the advice if you are growing more than one variety of pea to try and grow them 15 meters apart, but this can be less if they are separated by a barrier such as a hedge. Pollinators can be lazy sometimes! But, again the chance of crossing is low so it shouldn't be a big concern. Side note, thing like chickpeas (Cicer arietinum) and sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) are in the same family Fabaceae but not the same species so will not cross with the traditional garden peas (Pisum sativum).

Within this species there are 3 main categories -

English/podding peas. These are grown for the pea and the pod is generally too tough and fiberous to be eaten

Magetout/ snow peas. These are eaten before the peas develop and are eaten whole

Sugar snap peas. These peas were developed more recently to be the best of both worlds, the pea is eaten whole with the peas developed inside, meaning the crop is sweeter.

Within these categories, you will sometimes hear peas be refereed to as "wrinkled" or "round" seeded. This refers to how the seed looks dry, as sugar snap peas have more wrinkled seed. This is something to do with the higher sucrose content, but what it exactly does I couldn't pretend to know. There is also massive height range with different varieties of peas, and the dwarf varieties are well worth considering if you don't want to worry so much about the sturdiness of your support, or having to find something to climb on when it comes to harvesting the peas higher up.

Peas and calendula

Sitting around shelling peas can be really social and also feels satisfyingly like a kind of ancient practice, I don't know what it is about podding and shelling vegetables that appeals so much but I highly recommend it as a meditative process!

For more info, Hodmedods UK sell all sorts of dried legumes on their site, but also write articles and blogs about traditional varieties of UK grown legumes like the Carlin pea and how to cook with them.

[chokrihizem]

Welcome to the world of gardening, where every seed holds the promise of fresh, crisp romaine lettuce right from your backyard! If you've ever savored a salad made with homegrown greens, you know the joy that comes from nurturing plants to life. But did you know that you can extend that joy beyond a single growing season?

In this complete guide, we’ll dive into the art of harvesting and storing romaine lettuce seeds? Whether you're a seasoned gardener looking to save your favorite varieties or a curious beginner eager to learn more about sustainable practices, this guide is designed for you. We’ll walk you through each step of the process—from recognizing when your lettuce is ready to bolt, to collecting and storing those precious seeds for future planting.

Want to Read More:

The Complete Guide to Harvesting and Storing Romaine Lettuce Seeds

[carolinayourspiritmaster]

Seedsaving today: lovely Butternut Squash and Ñora peppers, both from farmers in the island. Starting a whole new chapter for my herbal apothecary and garden this year, with all the lessons learnt from the past years; I've been loving herbs since I was barely a teenager, and it is still one of the most exciting areas of my work.

[plantgoodseed]

hibiscus seed will be back later this fall. never get tired of these plants. harvested some calyxes for making teas and coolers. sign up here to know when our seeds are back in stock! https://www.plantgoodseed.com/products/hibiscus-sabdariffa-seeds

[thechurchoftheatom]

A Sermon for March 19th: The Garden as Legacy

A Sermon for March 19th: Sustaining the Future

Brothers and Sisters in the Atom, the act of growing and preserving food is an act of care—for ourselves, for our communities, and for the future. Just as we seek to preserve knowledge so that vital warnings and wisdom are not lost, so too must we preserve the means to sustain life. A well-tended garden, like a well-kept archive, is a gift to both the present and the generations to come.

The Garden as a Legacy

My own journey with gardening began with my grandfather, who learned from his parents—farmers who passed down their knowledge of the land. From them, I learned the value of tending to the earth, of patience in cultivation, and of the responsibility to sustain life. Later, I expanded this foundation through academic study, deepening my understanding of sustainable growing methods. I also learned the art of canning, ensuring that what is grown in times of abundance can sustain us in times of need. My great-grandparents, my grandfather, and myself are just three links in a chain that has stretched for thousands of years. Throughout history people have passed down knowledge of how to cultivate the land, how to store food for lean times, and how to adapt to changing conditions.

To plant a seed is to express faith in the future. To teach another how to grow and preserve food is to pass forward resilience, just as we pass forward knowledge of radiation’s unseen dangers. A garden does not only provide nourishment—it is a symbol of foresight, patience, and preparation.

The Importance of Food Preservation

Food security is not just about having enough—it is about ensuring that food remains safe to eat in times of crisis. In the event of a nuclear disaster, food growing outside may become contaminated by fallout, rendering it unsafe. However, food that has been properly sealed and stored indoors—whether canned, vacuum-sealed, or kept in airtight containers—remains safe to eat. Learning these methods is not just a convenience; it is a means of ensuring survival.

As Atomites, we recognize that disasters, large and small, can disrupt supply chains and food availability. While we do not live in fear, we acknowledge that preparation is wisdom. Consider learning techniques that extend the life of your food, such as:

Canning – Sealing food in jars to prevent spoilage and extend its shelf life.

Dehydration – Removing moisture from food to prevent bacterial growth.

Root Cellaring – Storing hardy vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions in cool, dark spaces without electricity.

Seed Saving – Collecting seeds from your best plants ensures that future harvests remain in your control and adapted to your environment.

These methods ensure that we have the means to sustain ourselves, just as our commitment to knowledge preservation ensures we pass down wisdom for survival.

A Call to Cultivate

Gardening and food preservation are not only practical skills but also acts of stewardship. They are reminders that we do not simply consume—we cultivate, we sustain, we prepare. Even those without land of their own can take part through container gardening, seed saving, or supporting local growers.

This week, reflect on how you can cultivate sustenance in your own life. Ask yourself:

Can I grow even a small portion of my own food?

How can I better prepare for times of scarcity?

What knowledge can I pass on about food security and sustainability?

Through these acts, we reinforce our role as stewards of both knowledge and survival. Let us prepare, not just for ourselves, but for those who come after us.

Resources for Further Learning

For those who wish to deepen their knowledge, consider these resources:

Ready.gov Food Storage and Safety – Guidelines on emergency food storage.

National Center for Home Food Preservation – Trusted information on safe canning, drying, and fermenting techniques.

Seed Savers Exchange – A resource for preserving heirloom seeds and maintaining food biodiversity.

Closing Words

The act of tending a garden is an act of hope. The knowledge of food preservation is a form of security. These are not only ways to sustain ourselves in difficult times, but they are gifts that can be passed on—skills that may outlast us, carrying forward the wisdom of those who came before and ensuring the survival of those yet to come.

May your hands be steady in planting and in preserving. May your preparations be a source of strength, not only for yourself but for your community. And may the seeds you sow, both in soil and in knowledge, take root and flourish.

Go forth and be radiant.

[joelekm]

Seed Saving Secrets REVEALED: Grow Stronger Plants for Years | Lavanya Dravida Mantripragada

Hi everyone! 🌱 In this video, I’ll show you how to harvest and store seeds from your plants to use for years to come. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, these simple steps will help you save seeds the right way.

[cedarsoflebanon]

A Victory Garden

a vault of free food.

[bijitdutta]

Know Your Seed: #13

Sonajuli Bau: Deep water, Red Rice.

The sixteenth century Assamese poet Ram Saraswati mentions red rice in his poem "Bhim Charit" entitled "Shiva's Agriculture"

Red rice is rich in magnesium, which is good for your bone. Red rice is rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanin. 

Red rice helps in regulating and maintaining insulin levels. It reduces stress levels and fatigue. Cook like a regular rice. Soaking is not required.

Red rice, has a low glycemic index. It keeps the glucose in the blood at minimal.

Rich in Antioxidants, Dietary Fibre, Vitamin B1, B2, B6 and many nutrients.

[just-pure-gardening]

Can You Plant Pumpkin Seeds Straight From The Pumpkin?

Can You Plant Pumpkin Seeds Straight From The Pumpkin?

Ready to dive into the world of pumpkin growing?

Discover the secrets behind planting pumpkin seeds straight from the pumpkin itself!

Learn how to nurture your own pumpkin patch and watch those vibrant vines flourish.

Who knew gardening could be this rewarding?

[mimosaarthouse]

#seeds #gardening #growyourown #organic #chiaseeds #vegan #seedsaving #growyourownfood #pumpki

[chokrihizem]

Because of their magnificent, towering blooms, hollyhocks are adored for lending a touch of cottage garden charm to any scene. It is imperative that you learn how to collect and store hollyhock seeds if you have planted them and want to maintain their beauty in your garden. To ensure you can enjoy these vivid flowers every year, I will lead you through the best techniques for harvesting and storing hollyhock seeds in this tutorial!

[spicesparklesessential]

HISTORY OF SPICES

The McCormick Science Institute (MSI) provides valuable insights into the historical and modern uses of herbs and spices, especially about health and culinary applications. Humans have co-evolved with plants for millions of years, discovering the flavorful and medicinal properties of herbs and spices. Initially, these natural ingredients were used to enhance the taste of food, mask undesirable flavors, and preserve perishable items. Spices have been valued throughout history for their various uses, from religious rituals to medicinal purposes. During biblical times, spices like cinnamon and saffron were highly regarded. In Ancient Egypt, garlic and onion were notable choices for both medical and culinary purposes, and the Ebers Papyrus from 1500 BC documented the use of various herbs. Early Chinese culture also recognized the power of herbs and spices, with the Classic Herbal, likely written around 2700 BC, containing information about medicinal plants, including cassia, which is similar to cinnamon. Ginger was also grown in pots and used to prevent scurvy during sea voyages. Ancient Mesopotamia, particularly Babylonia, had a rich tradition of spice and spices used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. King Ashurbanipal's records included various aromatic plants, while King Merodach-Baladan II grew numerous species of plants and herbs in his royal garden. India has a rich history of using spices such as black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom for culinary and health purposes. Ancient surgeons like Sushruta incorporated aromatic plants into medical practices. In ancient times, Greece and Rome imported and utilized a variety of Eastern spices. Hippocrates and Theophrastus contributed to the understanding of spices and herbs in medical science, while Dioscorides wrote "De Materia Medica," a comprehensive text on spices and herbs. The Arab and Muslim world played a significant role in the spice trade, using spices for both trading and scientific purposes. Arab physicians developed techniques to extract flower scents and essential oils from aromatic plants. During the Middle Ages, spices in Europe were highly prized and often used as currency. The Crusades opened up trade routes, making Asian spices more accessible. European apothecaries integrated spices and herbs into their remedies, often based on Arabian medical knowledge. Spices and herbs have played a significant role in human history, from early civilizations to the modern world. For instance, the Age of Exploration, including Marco Polo's accounts, contributed to the expansion of the spice trade. As a result, spices from the New World, such as capsaicin (red pepper) and allspice, were introduced to European cuisine. Moreover, American history saw early settlers incorporating indigenous spices and herbs into their diets. During the colonial and revolutionary periods, spices became an important part of American cuisine. In the present day, the usage of spices is diverse and widespread. They are commonly used in global cuisine, including astronaut food. Additionally, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the health benefits of spices. Scientific evidence supports their potential positive effects on heart health, cognition, and diet quality. To conclude, spices and herbs have been used for culinary enhancement as well as medicinal applications throughout history. Their continued exploration promises further health benefits. The McCormick Science Institute is a valuable resource for understanding the science behind the use of spices and herbs.

[plantgoodseed]

It's still possible to pick up seeds for holiday gifts or get a head start on next year’s gardening seasons! Take 15% off any seed order from plantgoodseed.com when checking out with discount code HOLIDAYSEEDS! Note: the cutoff for USPS Priority Mail and UPS Ground is December 18th. We offer both these options for shipping for checkout and any order $100 or over ships by USPS Priority Mail for free!

Also, we have been diligently working on getting our new releases for 2024 in order and we will start rolling some of these out before the end of the year!

[breelandwalker]

Garden Trellis Ideas - SeedSavers

Some crop types—like cucumbers, tomatoes, and pole beans—need the extra support a trellis can provide. Other crop types, like melons and squash, don’t require trellises but can benefit from being lifted off of the ground. When fruits are suspended from a trellis and kept from the soil surface, they are less prone to disease, and going vertical means that plants can grow vertically instead of sprawling, opening up some garden real estate on which to plant other crops. Trellises also have the benefit of making harvesting easier, as produce is at eye level and simpler to find and collect.

Read the full article (with photos!) on Seed Savers Exchange.

(I also recommend checking out the rest of the site for heirloom seeds, planting tips, and more gardening how-to's. You can also request a free catalog!)

[katiajewelbox]

Seeds are miraculous little things if you ponder them... They contain the potential for a whole plant in a biological "time capsule". As gardeners in Europe and the Northern Hemisphere start planning their seed orders, it's a perfect time to learn more about germination. Germination is the term for an organism growing into a whole adult plant from a seed or a spore, and it is used scientifically to talk about fungi and bacteria as well as plants. A typical plant seed contains a plant embryo, food reserves, and a seed coat. Depending on the species, mature seeds can be stored for years since the plant embryo is in a dehydrated state of suspended animation.

In nature, germinating at the wrong time in unfavourable conditions could spell disaster for the new plant. Seeds rely on the signals from water, temperature, oxygen, and light.

Soaking seeds is an excellent way to start germination. The seed coat is gently scarified with sandpaper or a nail file to break the watertight seal and allow water to enter the seed interior. The seeds often double in size as their tissues soak up the water in a process called imbibition. Water activates hydrolytic enzymes which start the seed's biological metabolism.

Tree seeds from temperate climates usually need cold stratification to germinate. The seed is kept in soil at low temperatures around 4 C (like a fridge) for several months before returning to room temperature. This temperature change tells the seed winter has passed and spring has arrived. Simply leaving potted seeds in a cold frame overwinter is ideal in Europe.

Seeds along need oxygen since seedlings do aerobic respiration until they're mature enough to start photosynthesising. Hard packed or waterlogged soil may contain insufficient oxygen and stop seeds from sprouting. Many tree seeds need exposure to light through a thin layer of soil to let them know that there's a "clearing" in the forest.Most kitchen garden seeds do well with soaking and exposure to warm temperatures since they are originally tropical plants.

This plate of seeds was collected in January in Hyde Park, London.

#seeds#germination#seedstarting#PlantBiology#plantscience#seedstorage#stratification#TreeSeeds#katia_plantscientist#gardening#gardeningtips#plants#plantfacts#stratification#seedsaving#seedstartingtime#semillos#nuts#fruits#plantlife

[gardeningbythemoon]

One of the first things we ever bonded over was our shared love of teaching, and this past fall we taught our first lunar gardening workshop together. We got so much positive feedback and requests for more that we’ve decided to start offering online lunar gardening classes. We’ve scheduled several sessions so that we can keep class sizes small, and have plenty of space for questions and conversation. We’re starting this spring session with four different classes: Introduction to Lunar Gardening: Built on a foundation of science, traditional knowledge, and reverence for the moon, this workshop gives attendees an overview of the moon’s phases and zodiac cycles and their impact on the growing, harvesting, and seedsaving of vegetables, fruit, flowers, and herbs. Planning Your Lunar Gardening Year: Lunar Gardening should always be an enticement to work with our gardens and tend to the plants in our care, rather than a burden or a scold. Even for the chronically disorganized (hi…), there are ways to bring our lives more in tune with the natural rhythms of the world around us—without weighing ourselves down with unmanageable to-do lists that invite guilt and shame. This workshop will outline several methods of timing the cycles of your planting and harvesting to the cycles of the moon, making it easier and more intuitive to bring your monthly & yearly routines in tune with the moon. Lunar Gardening for the Home Herbalist: Combining history, science, and reverence for the moon, this workshop will provide attendees with a deeper awareness of the moon’s phases and zodiac cycles to benefit the growing, harvesting, and seedsaving of medicinal and culinary herbs. Companion Planting by the Signs: It’s easy to get overwhelmed by a wall of facts and figures when you start looking deeper into planting by the signs. This class will go through commonly recommended companion planting pairs & guilds, and discuss the simplest ways to incorporate lunar gardening to support healthy plants and bountiful harvests. Like our calendar, all of our classes draw from a combination of European-American and Turtle Island, particularly Haudenosaunee, sources.

All classes are offered at a sliding scale. We invite you to reflect on your own financial situation and consider paying more if you experience such financial security as owning your own home, taking regular vacations, or earning a guaranteed salary; pay less if you experience financial instability such as renting or shift/gig work. If you live around or below the poverty level, please contact us about scholarship tickets.