how to harvest your marigolds for seeds !
Harvesting marigold seeds is super easy ~ Just let the flower heads dry completely on the plant. Once they're brown and crispy, snip them off and crumble them in your hand to release the seeds.
Marigolds are culturally significant in many places! In Mexico, they're used for Day of the Dead celebrations. In India, they're used in religious ceremonies and weddings.
what’s your favorite part about marigolds?
Harvesting marigold seeds is not only easy but also rewarding. To begin, it's crucial to know the right time to harvest. Wait until the marigold flower heads are fully dried and feel crispy to the touch. This usually means that the seeds inside are mature and ready for collection. Once the flowers reach this stage, snip them off the stem with scissors or garden shears. Hold the flower head over a clean surface, and gently crumble it using your fingers. The seeds will fall out, and by doing this, you can also separate the lightweight petals, leaving you with just the seeds. In addition to being a beautiful addition to your garden, marigolds hold a deep cultural significance around the world. In Mexico, for example, marigolds are integral to the Day of the Dead celebrations, where they are used to honor deceased loved ones. Meanwhile, in India, they play a vital role in various religious ceremonies and weddings, adding vibrant colors and fragrances. By growing and harvesting your own marigold seeds, you become part of this cultural heritage while contributing to your garden’s beauty. And don’t forget to experiment with different marigold varieties to see which you love best. This not only enhances your garden but allows you to share your experiences and discoveries with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Happy gardening!
This was one of my “chores” growing up! Great memories sitting on the front steps with my dad and him teaching me how to do this and how to plant in the spring!