Land of the Sky Chapter – Seed Gathering, Cleaning, and Planting

Guidelines for Ethical Wild Seed Collection:

Click here to access the Guidelines for Ethical Wild Seed Collection

These comprehensive guidelines provide crucial insights into responsible seed collection practices. Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or a novice gardener, this resource offers valuable advice to ensure your seed gathering aligns with ethical and ecological principles.


Seed cleaning

Dr. Larry Mellichamp‘s Seed Cleaning Video:

Watch Dr. Larry Mellichamp’s Seed Cleaning Video

Dr. Larry Mellichamp, an esteemed botanist and native plant expert, generously shares his knowledge and expertise in this informative video. While the video begins with seeds from trees and bushes, if you’re primarily interested in wildflower seeds, you can skip ahead to the relevant content after the first 16 minutes.


Seed collection, cleaning, storage, and planting books

Here are some helpful books.  My personal favorite is Jan Midgley’s self-published, book.  I do own all three and Cullina’s books are wonderful and I usually look at his book and Jan’ when I have questions. If you are interested in other native plant books here is a link to our recommended book list.

  • Native Plant Propagation by Jan W.W. Midgley (5th Edition) Self-published. For a single copy mail a check for $25 to address below and the author promptly sends the material. Cost includes the book and shipping. Address: Jan Midgley10560 W. Center Ave. Lakewood, CO 80226Email:  midgleyjan231@gmail.com
  • Growing and Propagating Wild Flower s by Harry R. Phillips University of North Carolina Press, 1985ISBN 0-8078-4131-5
  • Native Trees, Shrubs, and Vines: A Guide to Using, Growing, and Propagating North American Woody Plants by William Cullina Houghton Mifflin Co., 2002ISBN 0618098585
  • New England Wildflower Society Guide to Growing and Propagating Wildflowers of the United States and Canada by William Cullina Houghton Mifflin, 2000ISBN 0-395-96609-4
  • The New Wild Flowers and How to Grow Them by Edwin F. Steffek Timber Press, 1983ISBN 0-917304-51-9
  • Native Ferns, Moss & Grasses 2008 by William Cullina Houghton Mifflin

Winter sowing Resources

Native Seed Propagation

Winter sowing in 5 minutes

Winter sowing from Master Gardener, Buncombe County

Winter Sowing from the Wild Ones