These are from my Lucerna begonia. They clung on forever and fell off a few days ago. Are these seed pods? If so what should I do with them now so that I can harvest the seeds??
Harvesting begonia seeds
Yes, those are seed pods. They should've dried out on the plant so I'm not sure if they will be viable - they may be sterile. You can let them dry to a nice brown and see if the seeds will make it. The very few I have grown from harvested seed have always come from dry pods on the plant.
Check out these sites:
http://www.bradsbegoniaworld.com/seed.htm
http://swregion.tripod.com/program/growfromseed.htm
Thanks hcmc. I would guess the plants need to be outside for the pod to develop. I'll just wait and see if these develop into good seeds.
FancyFlea,
Here is a thread with some pictures of ripe (well, dried out) begonia pods and seed.
http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/693719/
Boy the seeds are really tiny! Years ago I got some of the Begonian books at a church sale. They were from the 1950's and one of them had a packet of seeds in a tiny envelope tucked inside. For the life of me I can't find it but I know I did save it. I always had the intention of sowing them. Not even sure what kind they were or if they are good anymore. THe hunt will continue.
If you are a member of the ABS you can buy seed of species from them at a modest price per packet. One of these days I would like to try my hand at it but for now I will be content with caring for all I've got.
I had been a member of the ABS about ten years ago and I quite enjoyed reading the Begonian. Too much moving around for the last ten years has kept me from ordering any mags. Just call me a Nomad(at least I am no mad). Next year I will be settling down for good and will order it again. I didn't realize you could buy seeds from them. A real plus. Thanks for the info.