Gardening: Harvest your own seeds for next year

Why the hell go through the trouble of harvesting and producing your own seeds without any guarantee of productivity, knowing that you can find all kinds of quality seeds in stores?

“This makes it possible to safeguard a diverse genetic heritage. Most varieties have been forgotten by growers in recent decades for reasons of productivity in favor of standardized varieties, argues Claudia Steinacker, French-speaking manager for the ProSpecieRara foundation. However, it is now essential to preserve a large range of them so as not to find ourselves helpless in the face of climate change. Each preserved variety could prove valuable in the future, due to its potential adaptation to new conditions.”

With a view to maintaining and sharing genetic capital, the Swiss Foundation for Heritage and Genetic Diversity invites individuals to share their harvests at seed centers, grain libraries. In the past, the seeds of local flowers, fruits and vegetables were passed down from generation to generation, like treasures. Are you tempted to reconnect with tradition? Follow the leader!

Cchoose the right seeds

Collect seeds from non-hybrid varieties: Unlike plants resulting from the crossing of two species, generally available in supermarkets, old or rare varieties have much greater fertility in the second generation.

Prefer self-pollinating species: In tomatoes, lettuces, peppers, eggplants, beans, poppies and peppers, which self-fertilize, the result of the future seed will be close to the previous generation. Conversely, in cross-pollinated species (beets, carrots, zucchini, cabbage, radishes, onions, etc.), fertilization takes place between two distinct individuals. The seeds of beautiful pumpkins therefore do not necessarily result in beautiful offspring, especially when combined with inedible cucurbits.

Let yourself be guided by your instinct: identify robust, healthy plants that have the desired qualities (size, taste, yield, etc.) to avoid the transmission of diseases and ensure better seed quality.

Remove seeds at the right time

Fleshy fruit seeds: harvest the ripe fruits and extract the seeds. Rinse them thoroughly to remove the pulp or any residual plant matter. For tomatoes, it is recommended to let the seeds ferment for a few days in their pulp to eliminate the gel surrounding them.

Seeds of plants grown to seed (salads, radishes, lettuce): wait until the seeds are completely dry before cutting them. It is often advisable to harvest early in the morning, when the seeds are less likely to scatter.

Pod vegetables (beans, peas): If possible, let the pods dry on the plant, then open them to collect the seeds. If the seeds are hard, it’s good.

Gmanage your stock

Drying the seeds after harvest: this will prevent mold or spoilage. Place the seeds in a dry, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight. Drying time varies depending on the seeds, but it is important to make sure they are completely dry before storing them. In a small box or envelope, seeds generally retain their fertility for five years.

Test seeds for viability (optional): Before replanting, it may be useful to test the seeds for germination. Sow a few on damp paper to check their ability to germinate.

Label each bag: It is advisable to label the sachets with the name of the variety, the harvest date and any relevant information in order to keep a written record of the harvest and be able to draw a summary of the experience.

Hibernation: five tips for your balcony plants

Winter is approaching, and with it, temperatures that can harm the plants installed on our balconies. Although the cold is feared by many varieties, it is entirely possible to effectively protect your plants so that they get through this difficult period and return in great shape in spring.

1. Know the needs of your plants: certain plants, called hardy such as lavender or perennial geraniums, tolerate the cold well and can remain outside. Others, more fragile, such as fuchsias or citrus fruits, must be placed in a sheltered place.

2. Protect Roots and Pots: use mulch (straw, dead leaves, bark, etc.) to cover the surface of the potting soil and protect the roots from frost. For greater efficiency, surround the pots with insulation (bubble wrap, cardboard) to protect them from the cold.

3. Adapt watering: During the winter, plants go dormant and consume less water. It is therefore crucial to reduce or even eliminate watering to avoid excessive humidity and root rot. Water only when the soil is dry on the surface and make sure that water does not accumulate at the bottom of your pots.

4. The winter veil: this lightweight accessory protects plants from frost and wind while allowing air and light to pass through. Use it for sensitive potted plants and shrubs, especially in severe frosts.

5. Monitor pests and diseases: even in winter, plants can be attacked by parasites such as mealybugs. Inspect them regularly and treat at the first signs of infestation.

In conclusion, the key to successfully overwintering your balcony plants is to know them well, provide them with adequate protection and adapt your actions to their specific needs.

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