Skip to main content

Seed Saver Training: Episode 5

As a part of the Southern Ontario Seed Strategy (SOSS), this 6-part video series features seed experts and knowledge keepers as they share some of their best practices for seed saving. 

If you are new to native seed saving, these videos will provide an opportunity for you to hear from experts and become inspired to start connecting with native seed. If you are already familiar with native seed saving, these videos may show you more specific tips and tricks to help your current seed practices thrive. 

 

Episode 5: Tree and Shrub Seed Collection 

In this episode, Kristen Sandvall, of the Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA), shares a wealth of tree seed collection tips for native tree species in the Long Point region including how to do a seed cut test, how to forecast seed ripeness, and other best practices for seed collection. 

  • 0:18 – Introducing the Forest Gene Conservation Association 
  • 0:53 – Tree seed collection tips 
  • 1:57 – How to do a seed cut test 
  • 2:27 – Seed cut test: Red Oak example 
  • 4:14 – Tools for seed collection 
  • 5:02 – Fleshy fruit vs dry fruit collection 
  • 5:56 – Storing seeds 
  • 6:44 – Using a forecasting schedule to guide collection times 
  • 8:19 – Taking a look inside a seed 
  • 9:46 – Why trees don’t produce seed every year 
  • 10:37 – Seed collection tips: Spice Bush example 
  • 12:11 – Seed collection tips: American Hazelnut example 
  • 13:05 – Seed collection tips: Shining Sumac example 
  • 13:59 – Caution about Species at Risk 

 

What is seed saving? 

Seed saving refers to activities that help scale up the protection and expansion of native seed sources. Many experts and professionals practice seed saving activities, such as tending to seed orchards or collecting native seeds. Seed saving is important because one native plant has the potential to produce hundreds or even thousands of seeds, carrying valuable genes into the future, but millions of plants are needed to support a healthy, resilient landscape. 

Working in partnership with native plants, each of us can help safeguard the seeds that are key to a healthy landscape now and for future generations. 

 

Stay tuned in the coming week for the final episode: 

  • Seed Saver Training Episode 6: Restoring Relationships to the Land