I just moved into a house with a great garden, and lots of things are going to seed. So far I have seeds from globe thistle and wisteria. I'd like to share the seeds, but I've never traded seeds before. Is there anything special I need to do to the seeds, or just pluck them off, stick them in an envelope, and send them off? I'd be perfectly happy sending them for SASE, but still I don't want anyone to be disappointed if I mess it up somehow... Please let me know how to do this, and soon I'll be sending out some seeds. Oh, and how much/many seeds would be appropriate for these two completely different kinds of plants? Thanks for your advice!
--Dana
New at Seed Trading
Dana rule of thumb for trading is at least 25 seed unless they are large or very tiny(like dust) or hard to come by then, just use your judgement or make agreement with the trading party for amount desired. SASE is what ever you want to give since you are giving them away expecting nothing in return
Thanks, that's a good rule of thumb to know! What do you think would be appropriate for the wisteria? They are like thick dimes in size/shape. I have a dozen of them, and I'll get at least a dozen more when the rest of the pods ripen. Also, when do I use a regular envelope and when are bubble envelopes best?
Thanks,
Dana
bubble envolopes are always best. in a pinch i have a roll of bubble wrap handy if i have to send in regular envolopes.
regular envolopes are easier to crush in the machines at the post office and on the bubble envolopes you can tracj them with delivery confirmation.
wisteria seeds 6 sounds fair as they are big seeds.
the hard to find ones should be your descision on how many you want to trade.
Walmart sells little baggies in the craft department( like little plastic coin bags) which are like a dollar for 500 i think. cant remeber how many is in a pck but they make great seed carriers through the mail.
Dana, it is very important to dry seeds properly, remove them from their pods and clean as much chafe as possible. Use paper bags to store them to avoind rottening.
WARNING: once you have started seed-collecting/seed-trading, there is no way back LOL.
Hugs,
Ursula
the 25 seed rule is fine if the seeds are plentiful. I don't necessarily send 25 seeds when they are not prolific seed producers or the seeds are huge... or both!
Oh no, Ursula! I think I'm delving into a few new addictions all at once now! I guess I can call them all "gardening" and it counts as one. :) I guess now's the time to admit that I dreamt about seeds all night.
What do I need to do to dry the seeds? Now, as I mentioned, I have wisteria and globe thistle...
Thanks for all the tips! I'm sure I'll be a pro once I do it a couple times, but for now there are a lot of questions.
Thanks,
Dana
I place a plate or plastic container with the seeds inside in a sunny location to dry. Globe thistle will break apart easily when it is ready. When you think they are dry, then wait another week before you pack them in envelopes or baggies. (Just my way of making sure they are totally dried & free of insects that may have hitched a ride) Remember that some seeds may require a cold period to germinate. I store mine in a cold garage & it works out very well. Good luck, & have fun with it!
Julie
Thank you for the advice! I think that really helped clarify my questions. :)
While you are all figuring it out..LOL ...you can put me on your list for a few wisteria seeds..Three would be fine! D-mail me or I will send you my addy. Thanks! I guess let me know when you are ready..To sell or sase etc. Please let me know :)
Also, check on the seed saving forum for info on specific seeds.
Jan..