A Brief Guide to Collecting, Processing, and Germinating Native Seeds 

By Jonathan O.C. Kubesch^1,2, Dillon P. Golding^1,3, Frank P. Reith^1,2, Joseph D. House⁴, Ezra Staengl^1,5, and Jenna E. Beville¹ 

Embarking on the journey of collecting, processing, and germinating native seeds can be both educational and rewarding. Whether your goal is to create a native backyard, cultivate ornamental natives, restore a natural plant community, or contribute to the conservation of indigenous plants, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and direct you to resources that improve the experience and the establishment of your native plants.  

Challenges exist for many native plants, such as small wild populations, limited seed production, and even a lack of knowledge on how to handle collected seeds (Center for Plant Conservation [CPC], 2019). This guide walks through a seed collecting example to help guide your seed collecting project.  

Setting Your Goal 

Before you delve into the world of native seed collection, it’s crucial to define your purpose. Are you looking to establish a thriving native garden in your backyard, cultivate a visually appealing ornamental native, restore an ecosystem, or contribute to the conservation of local plant species? Understanding your goal will shape your approach and guide your efforts. 

For informal or backyard gardening, many native plants are commercially available, and can be purchased rather than collected from the wild. These species are typically grown in greenhouses with ideal conditions unlike natural stands.  

Collecting threatened or endangered plants without rigorous permission or planning is not condoned by the Kentucky Native Plant Society (KNPS), the Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves, or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  

Another option would be working with private landowners to procure seed. Be sure to coordinate with the landowner far in advance of your intended seed collection, not only to obtain permission, but also so that they do not use the land for another purpose and disrupt the seed production. Landowners might be more keen to set this land, or a section of their land, aside for your seed collection if you offer to share some of the collected seed with them. Plant conservation projects can be extremely rewarding and benefit greatly from citizen scientists and landowners. The KNPS actually offers several student and public research grants that support plant conservation and propagation for Kentucky plants.  

For the farmer or land manager, your goals will be considerably different. Whether you want to be more environmentally friendly with your operation or wish to reap the benefits that come with adding natives to your landscape, species selections and subsequent collections should be tailored to function.  

First and foremost, a farm is a business and has to be treated as such.  Luckily, some native plants can improve the profitability of your farm. Converting a property entirely into natives may be a lofty goal, especially given limited seed availability. Consider transforming a smaller section of your land into natives and try it out. See how you, your livestock, and the wildlife enjoy it and then decide what is best for your operation.  

There are many natives that are beautiful and agriculturally productive, but, the bulk of research has coalesced around the big four: switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), and indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans). The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service considers these four grasses valuable for both livestock feed and ecosystem services and are what the authors recommend for the skeptical farm owner to try.  

There are guides which tell which of these four species to plant in different environments. You could greatly increase the forage value of the stand by also planting clover (Trifolium spp; preferably but not necessarily native) alongside the native grasses. Clovers enhance the nutritive value and provide nutrients through nitrogen fixation.  

A working and profitable farm must be pragmatic above all else, so if you cannot obtain North American clover species (e.g Trifolium reflexum or T. stoloniferum), then non-native red (T. pratense) and white clover (T. repens), might be the only clover option. Either way, you would still be providing more ecosystem services and habitat to wildlife with a composite native and nonnative system than with a farm of 90% tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea). Ideally, this is just a stepping stone toward a more sustainable, fully native grassland, so any time you get native seed in the landscape is a good thing. 

Regardless of the purpose for which seeds are being collected, getting baseline data for the planting site (species composition, native/non-native cover, soil fertility, etc.) is an important part of the goal-setting process (Sharp, 2023). Such baseline data can be used to determine which species are most suitable for a site. Some contractors will conduct this work as part of a contract planting, though you should also attempt to describe your site. If the goal of the project is to restore a natural plant community, this data can be used to infer the natural ecosystem trajectory of the site, and thus which community type should be targeted for restoration. 

Planting localities should be identified before collecting seed. Planning out and readying a planting space prior to seed collection has many benefits, such as allowing consideration of future root system spread, decreasing weed presence, and loosening compacted soils.  

Knowing the size of the future planting area also allows the seed collector to acquire an adequate amount of seeds. This, in turn, can increase potential stand establishment by having a proper seeding rate. Collecting seed without having a destination in mind can render collecting efforts fruitless (Kubesch et al., 2023a; Bryant & Kubesch, 2023; Kubesch et al., 2023b; Kubesch et al., 2023c; Arnold et al., 2022; Harkins & Kubesch, 2023).  

Additionally, collecting similar data at the seed collection site can demonstrate the environment and associated species with which the target plant grows, and inform where it would do best in a garden or restoration setting. A recent example of this sort of planning regards the seed collection and characterization of two native grasses at a farm in Carroll County, Virginia (Figure 1). An anonymous landowner requested a survey of a native grassland on his property, and in addition to generating data on the botanical community present (Figure 2), a preliminary native grass ecotype evaluation was requested.  

Ecotype evaluation is a form of variety trialing that evaluates natural subspecies variation within a species or in comparison to other forms. In this case, this evaluation would compare splitbeard (Andropogon ternarius) and little (Schizachyrium scoparium) bluestems from this farm against commercially available forms. These comparisons are important in order to identify variability within species, and may highlight the importance of sourcing native plants as locally as possible. The plants were scheduled for a laboratory at Virginia Tech and subsequent transfer to the Virginia Tech Urban Horticulture Center for the trial. The planned planting site boasts a history of vegetable and ornamental plant trials.  

Figure 1. Little bluestem persisting in a working cow-calf grazing system in Carroll County, Virginia. Photo credit: talented, yet unnamed research assistant. August 4, 2023. 

Figure 2. Several authors were seen surveying in Carroll County, Virginia. Photo credit: talented, yet unnamed research assistant. Note that the degraded area in the foreground was an abandoned 1960s home site with non-native grass incursion. September 29, 2023.  

Collecting Native Seeds

Knowing where and when to collect native seeds is fundamental to success (CPC, 2019). Choose plants that align with your goals and are native to your region. Optimal collection times are usually during the plant’s natural seed dispersal period. There are some historical guides for native seed collection (e.g. United States Department of Agriculture [USDA] 1948; USDA 1961), though the U.S. Forest Service Reforestation, Nurseries, & Genetic Resources (RGNR) website does include some modern information and recommendations for many native plants. Many wildflower and native plant guides report when plants are in bloom and can be used for scouting trips. Scouting plant populations from which to collect is important to timing seed collection. 

An important issue to consider when timing your collection is that of variable maturity: that being when your seed crop does not mature all at once. Where many domesticated crops have been uniformly planted and bred to have a set number of days to maturity, most grassland natives have not. Check local and regional guides for the peak of your desired plant’s seed production in your desired location. 

Use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruners to carefully collect mature seeds, ensuring you do not harm the plant. For many dry seeds, such as grasses and most wildflowers, seed can be stored in paper bags during collection. Keeping good collection records is important to maintaining the natural history or the biography of the plant once it comes into your garden or planting. It is crucial to obtain proper permissions when collecting seeds from public or private lands. This article does not endorse seed collection without getting explicit permission from the relevant landowner or agency.  

In the current example, a scouting trip actually prompted the seed collection goals described in the case study. The unnamed landowner presented a hillside of little bluestem preparing to set seed in late August 2023 to the lead author, and invited a team to survey and collect seed (Figure 1). There were native black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp) flowers in bloom as early as May that were ready to harvest in June. In the same field, there were black-eyed Susan plants which were finally developing mature seed as late as the first week of October.  

Botanical surveying, soil sampling, and seed collection were conducted on the same day in late September 2023 (Figure 2). The botanical surveying identified some dense populations of little bluestem throughout the 33 acre site, and a 1-2 acre patch of splitbeard bluestem. The results of these botanical surveys fit some descriptive work about the grassy spaces of the mid-South (Campbell, 2012). These botanical surveys and soil testing can help identify future uses for these two grasses, primarily in acidic to average soils with xeric to subxeric moisture regimes (Campbell, 2012).  

Seed was collected by two means in order to 1.) capture genetic diversity of the bluestems; and to 2.) generate seed yields for the site. In both cases the collectors used shears to collect mature seedheads and bagged plants separately. 50 unique little bluestem plants and 25 unique splitbeard bluestem plants were sampled. Bulk seed yield samples were collected within a 0.25 m² PVC frame. Five bulk samples came from each of the little and splitbeard bluestem sites (Figures 3 and 4).  

Figure 3. Little bluestem growing in a working cow-calf grazing system in Carroll County, Virginia. Photo credit: talented, yet unnamed research assistant. September 29, 2023.  

Figure 4. Splitbeard bluestem growing in a working cow-calf grazing system in Carroll County, Virginia. Photo credit: talented, yet unnamed research assistant. September 29, 2023.  

Processing Native Seeds

Commercially, native seed is processed to reduce or remove the structures that can clog seed drills or application tools. For many native gardeners, seed might be processed for ease of placement. For most native seeds, drying is crucial to preventing mold and plant diseases. After collection, spread the seeds in a single layer on a clean, dry surface. Allow them to air dry for a few days, ensuring no moisture is trapped, which could lead to mold. 

Some seeds may have hard coverings or pods that need to be opened. This process, known as dehiscing, can be achieved by gently crushing or rubbing the seeds to reveal the inner kernel. 

Proper storage is essential to maintain seed viability. Store seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Consider adding silica gel packets to absorb any residual moisture and prevent mold. Having a long-term storage plan may be outside the scope of your native project, but reviewing guidelines for preserving seed long-term may be especially useful for long-term projects, such as expanding a planting or sharing seed with others (CPC, 2019). 

In the bluestem example seed processing is limited because one of the projects being conducted with this seed is to determine the optimal rate of hay transfer (Figure 5). In the realm of ecological restoration, the process of hay transfer plays a crucial role in nurturing and revitalizing degraded landscapes (Dubecq et al., 2022). Hay transfer involves the strategic spreading of nutrient-rich hay or straw on bare or disturbed soil surfaces within a restoration site. This practice serves multiple ecological purposes, including erosion control, moisture retention, and the provision of a conducive environment for the establishment of native vegetation. The layer of hay acts as a protective blanket, shielding the soil from erosive forces such as wind and water, while also offering a conducive microhabitat for seeds to germinate and young plants to take root. Additionally, hay transfer aids in the suppression of invasive species and facilitates the natural regeneration of indigenous plants, fostering a healthier and more biodiverse ecosystem. As an integral part of ecological restoration strategies, hay transfer embodies a holistic approach to landscape rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices for the long-term health and resilience of ecosystems. 

As such, seedhead and stems were left intact and cured at room temperature in a laboratory to simulate a traditional hay harvest. This seed is intended for use in spring 2024, and leaving seed on the stem like this is not advisable for long-term storage. Some subsamples will be refrigerated in plastic vials for long-term work.  

Figure 5. Preparing a hay transfer microcosm for splitbeard and little bluestems in Smyth 350 laboratory, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia. October 4, 2023. 

Germination and Emergence

Understanding the germination process is key to successfully growing native plants from seeds. The germination journey begins with imbibition, a process in which the dry seed absorbs water. This hydration triggers biochemical changes, activating enzymes that break down stored nutrients within the seed. The seed swells, undergoing a physical expansion that softens the seed coat. This phase is crucial as it marks the end of dormancy and the initiation of the metabolic activity essential for growth. 

Following imbibition, the seed enters a phase of heightened metabolic activity. Enzymes catalyze the conversion of stored starches into simpler sugars, providing the energy necessary for the embryo’s growth. As this occurs, essential cellular processes, such as respiration and DNA replication, kickstart. The embryo elongates, and its cells divide and differentiate, preparing the groundwork for the emergence of the embryonic root, known as the radicle. 

The final phase of germination witnesses the emergence of the radicle, or the embryonic root. This primary root elongates and extends into the soil, anchoring the young plant. Simultaneously, the shoot tip begins its upward journey, pushing through the soil surface. As the shoot emerges, it unfurls the embryonic leaves, known as cotyledons, which serve as the plant’s initial source of energy until true leaves develop and photosynthesis takes over. The successful completion of these phases marks the transformation of a dormant seed into a vibrant, growing seedling. Starting this three-phase process can require tricks and manipulation. For many native plants this has been described in the seminal work of the Baskins (Baskins and Baskins, 2014), the RNGR website, or through the Prairie Moon Nursery website. Your local native plant vendor may also be willing to share their experience with a species. Be sure to support this local ecological knowledge with purchases and support! 

Sometimes, even when conditions are ideal for germination to occur, it simply does not. There are a wide variety of additional factors that must be taken into consideration when attempting to cause seed, especially native seed, to break dormancy. 

Some seeds have hard outer coatings that need to be broken down for germination to occur. Scarification involves mechanically or chemically breaking or weakening the seed coat. This can be done by lightly scratching or nicking the seed or by soaking it in a mild acid solution. Medium grit sandpaper seems to be safest for the seed collector as well as the seed in most instances.  

Certain seeds require a period of cold and moist conditions to break dormancy. This process is called stratification. Many native wildflowers seem to have improved growth when stratified compared to unstratified seed when planted at the same time (Bellangue, 2023). Place the seeds in a damp paper towel or moist potting mix, seal them in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for the recommended time, generally 3-6 wk. Natural stratification can be accomplished using milk jugs as well (Yochim, 2023). 

After scarification and/or stratification, create an ideal environment for germination by providing the right combination of light, temperature, and moisture as is appropriate for a species. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix, keep it consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide adequate light for seedlings to thrive. 

In addition to all these dormancy mechanisms, one must also consider how native plants differ from other agricultural plants. Many species of interest, including the splitbeard and little bluestem in our example, native to the United States developed under conditions that were prone to regular fire regimes, which has been shown to promote seed development with longer dormancy periods (USDA, 1948). This delay in germination allowed these plants to recover after harsh conditions and readily recolonize disturbed areas, such as by those places heavily disturbed by migratory American Bison (Bison bison) or burning. On the other end of the spectrum, many European and Asian crops were selectively bred for centuries to break dormancy as easily as possible to facilitate cultivation by humans (Harlan, 1992). With all this in mind, planting natives from seed can be a new challenge for the aspiring conservationist. 

For the Carroll County bluestems, several vintage resources were consulted (USDA, 1948; USDA, 1961). Additionally, the RGNR protocol for splitbeard bluestem was used to lay out a procedure. Splitbeard bluestem, and some populations of little bluestem, have stratification requirements, and so simple cold, moist stratification was necessary. To estimate the potential seedlings possible from a hay transfer, a preliminary emergence trial was performed. Several seedhead stems of the splitbeard and little bluestem bulk samples were placed on top of a tray a loose potting mix (~2” deep), covered with (~¼”) additional loose potting mix, watered, and then refrigerated at 41 °F for 3 wk (Figure 6) .  

Figure 6. An initiated hay transfer microcosm for splitbeard and little bluestems in Smyth 350 laboratory, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia. The tray is being bottom-watered prior to a 21 day cold moist stratification treatment. October 4, 2023.  

Get Out There and Collect Seeds! 

Embarking on the journey of collecting, processing, and germinating native seeds is a fulfilling endeavor. By understanding your goal, responsibly collecting seeds, and mastering the processes of seed processing and germination, you can contribute to the preservation and appreciation of native plant species in your region. Happy gardening! 

References 

References for this article are hyperlinked throughout for easy access. If any links fail to open, please contact the corresponding author: Jonathan Kubesch, M.S. (jakubesch@gmail.com). 

United States Department of Agriculture 1948 (Grass) and 1961 (Seeds) Yearbooks of Agriculture were examined in their original hard copy formats, though an internet archive is available.  

Acknowledgements 

This article was prompted by several fruitful conversations among Leighton Reid’s students as well as the Carroll County landowner. These case study experimental preparations and seed collections were made possible with the support of the proprietors of the unnamed Carroll County farm as well as Country Home Farms. Yearbooks were sourced from Roy Blaser’s (1912-2008) collection. Kubesch expresses his gratitude to Sarah Grace and Joseph Cole Kubesch for their encouragement and support.