My basils are setting seeds and I have never grown them before. Do I have to let the seed stalks dry on the plant or can I cut the entire stalk and let it dry in the house. I don't want to lose them. I have so much enjoyed cooking with the fresh basils, rosemary and sage. I plan to extend my collection next year.
Question about seed harvesting
From brighthub.com:
Basil: Let your basil plants send up flower stalks near the end of the growing season. Pinch off the flower stalks when they begin to dry and become brown on the edges. Allow the flower stalks to dry at room temperature for a few days. Then, gather the basil seeds by tapping the stalk gently on a paper plate. Tiny black seeds should shake out of the stalk.
Read more: http://www.brighthub.com/environment/green-living/articles/24355.aspx#ixzz105dWgZ6w
Yep - Kay's right on the money. You will get a lot of seeds from the Basil plants too;o) And if you miss some you'll have volunteers next year.
Thanks so much for your quick reply. The seed pods at the bottom are dry and the ones at the top are not. Can I go ahead and collect them?
If they look like they are starting to dry go ahead and collect them. The longer you can wait the more mature the seeds will be.
Thanks so much. I will check them in the morning.