Harvesting Morning Glory Seeds

It is simple to save Morning Glory seeds from your existing Morning Glory plants. The seeds can then be used in intelligent ways for gift giving or decoration. You will also save money when planting and growing next year's garden.

The first thing to do is learn how to recognize the seed pods. They are very distinguishable from the rest of the vine. The seed pods hang down in a group of four. Each pod has five leaves that cover the round pod and then hang down. The seed pods are green at first then turn brown/black with maturity. The seed pods will become brown shelled round pods that crack open with slight pressure.

Now that you know what the seed pods look like, it is time to grab a large bowl and a sharp pair of scissors. Before going seed picking, it is a good idea to put on long sleeves and gardener's gloves because the Morning Glory leaves are a little itchy. Cut off the seed pods carefully at the top of the bundle and place in a bowl. I say carefully because the seed pods will bust open if you hold onto them. Harvest all the seeds that you can at a time, waiting a week or so between harvests.

With gloveless hands, gently bust open the pods with a squeeze and let the black seeds fall out. Throw away the plant waste. Allow the seeds to air out for about a day before packing up. Skipping this step could ruin the seeds by allowing mold and mildew to grow, so give more time to this step if seeds seem to be damp. This is especially so if using plastic packaging.

Packaging the seeds is an easy job. The easiest method is just to place them in a Ziploc bag or into an envelope. Whichever method you choose, clearly label with the type and color of the flower and the year picked. Or as an alternative, use a photo of the Morning Glory plant and the year picked.

However, the seeds make great little gifts if placed into small envelopes with a little written sentiment, poem or a picture. The seeds can also be combined or layered with other seeds in a glass jar for an unique gift or decoration. Another way to present the seeds to a friend is by preparing a pot of soil, lay a pack of seeds on top and seal the top of the pot with plastic wrap and a rubber band or a tied ribbon.