Delphinium seeds need a cold period for spring germination. The recommended approach is to harvest your seeds once the flowers have all faded. At that point, cut down the stalks to the ground and hang the stalks indoors to dry. Once the seed pods begin to split (after a few weeks), remove the small seeds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator during the winter months. About 10 weeks before your last frost date, remove the seeds and begin the germination process indoors. Plant the seeds in evenly moist soil (just not too wet) covering the seeds with about 1/8 inch of soil. Seedlings should emerge in 21 to 28 days. Once seedlings appear, provide plenty of light. Before planting outdoors, harden off your seedlings.
Hi Patricia,
Delphinium seeds need a cold period for spring germination. The recommended approach is to harvest your seeds once the flowers have all faded. At that point, cut down the stalks to the ground and hang the stalks indoors to dry. Once the seed pods begin to split (after a few weeks), remove the small seeds and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator during the winter months. About 10 weeks before your last frost date, remove the seeds and begin the germination process indoors. Plant the seeds in evenly moist soil (just not too wet) covering the seeds with about 1/8 inch of soil. Seedlings should emerge in 21 to 28 days. Once seedlings appear, provide plenty of light. Before planting outdoors, harden off your seedlings.