How Do You Get Grass Seeds?

You can collect grass seeds directly from mature grass plants when they are ready.

Harvesting grass seeds from existing plants is a practical way to obtain seeds, especially for native or specific grass types you already have. This method focuses on collecting the ripe seeds manually from the flowering part of the grass.

Collecting Grass Seeds from Plants

To collect grass seeds directly from a grass plant, you need to locate the inflorescence, which is the flower-bearing part extending from the stem. The process involves carefully stripping the seeds from this structure when they are mature.

Here’s a step-by-step guide based on the provided method:

• Step 1: Identify the Inflorescence
  Locate the inflorescence on your grass plant. This is essentially the seed head or the flowering portion that stands up from the main stem.
• Step 2: Prepare for Collection
  Hold the base of the inflorescence with one hand. This provides stability as you collect the seeds.
• Step 3: Strip the Seeds
  Using your other hand, slide your thumb and index finger upward to the top of the plant, moving along the inflorescence. As you slide your fingers, gently squeeze.
• Step 4: Accumulate Seeds
  As you perform the squeezing and sliding motion, the ripe seeds will accumulate at the top of your fingers. You can then collect these seeds into a container.

This technique allows you to gather seeds by hand from the grass stalks. Timing is important; seeds are typically ready for harvest when the inflorescence starts to dry out and the seeds are easily dislodged.

When to Collect

The best time to collect seeds varies depending on the grass species and climate, but generally, it's when the seed heads have matured and begun to turn brown or dry. You can test readiness by gently rubbing a few seeds; if they come off easily, they are likely ready to harvest.

Remember that seeds collected this way may need drying and proper storage before planting to ensure viability.