Lily seeds

Kenneth Hixson khixson@nu-world.com
Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:53:12 PDT
David Ehrlich wrote:
> A few years ago, I bought some Tango Lilies from Beck’s.  

... a number of ripening seed pods.  ...seed for the BX.

How can I tell when the pods are ripe –

	First, what you have are OP (open pollenated) seeds,
and they may not much resemble the parents.

	Lily seed pods soften as they approach ripness,
begin to turn light brown.  Then the top of the pod cracks
open along three suture lines.  Pick them and allow them
to finish ripening, someplace dry and with some air circulation.
You can open the pods before they are fully dry, and if the
seeds are full size and plump, but still white, they are
probably good, and if allowed to dry, will be fine.  If the
seeds are light brown, they are nearly ripe or mature.
	You can wrap the pods with nylon mesh or cheesecloth,
to prevent the pods from fully opening and dispersing the
seed--but check for insects, who will enjoy having a protected
place to stay and munch.
	Just be sure the seeds are well dried, or they will mold.
A plastic bag usually means mold.  Once properly dried, they
can be stored for several months in a cool place, or put in
a freezer and kept for up to twenty years.

Ken


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