Expert: C.L. Fornari - 9/10/2007

Question
Hi, I have some morning glories currently growing. I live in Zone 5 (colorado) were I believe they are an annual.  This is the 1st year I have planted them, I know they reseed themselves, or so I have been told. I heard they develop seeds. If so, what do I look for, when does it happen, & how do I store the seeds to make sure they are good next year. I wanted to know this, since it is so cold here and if they do drop seeds, they may not reseed themselves. Thanks so much.

Answer
Steve,
Morning glory seeds will develop just below the wilted flower - the area where the petals meet the stem just below will swell slightly, and that's where the seeds form.  If you want to be sure to collect some before they fall, but not pick them too early before they're ripe, wrap a bit of netting or small, light pieces of cloth around the wilted flower and leave it in place for a few weeks, removing them in late October or early November.

Sometimes plants that self seed will just drop their seeds in place on the soil and sprout next year - that could happen as well, but it's always good to collect seed to save just in case.

Store the seed in an envelope put in a jar or plastic carton, and keep it in a cool place.

I hope this helps,
C.L.