How to Store Rhubarb Seeds for Successful Propagation

Rhubarb, a perennial plant known for its tart and tangy stalks, also produces seeds that can be saved and stored for future plantings. Proper seed storage is crucial for maintaining seed viability and preserving the genetic diversity of rhubarb plants. This article provides a comprehensive guide to harvesting, cleaning, drying, and storing rhubarb seeds to ensure their longevity and successful germination.

What are Rhubarb Seeds?

Rhubarb seeds are the result of pollination and fertilization in rhubarb plants. The seeds are encased within triangular wings, which aid in their dispersal by wind or animals. When mature, the seeds are dark brown or black in color and have a hard outer shell.

Importance of Storing Rhubarb Seeds

Storing rhubarb seeds is essential for several reasons:

1. Preservation of Genetic Diversity: Saving seeds from different rhubarb varieties helps preserve the genetic diversity of the species. This is particularly important for heirloom or rare varieties that may not be readily available commercially.
2. Future Plantings: Stored seeds can be used for future plantings, allowing gardeners to propagate new rhubarb plants without purchasing them. This can be cost-effective and ensures a continuous supply of fresh rhubarb.
3. Seed Exchange: Rhubarb seeds can be shared with other gardeners, promoting seed diversity and fostering a sense of community among gardening enthusiasts.

Harvesting Rhubarb Seeds

1. Timing: Rhubarb seeds are ready for harvest when the seed heads turn brown and dry, typically in late summer or early fall.
2. Method: To harvest rhubarb seeds, cut off the seed heads and place them in a paper bag or container. Allow the seed heads to dry completely, which may take a few weeks.
3. Extraction: Once the seed heads are dry, shake or rub them to release the seeds. The seeds can then be separated from the chaff and debris using a sieve or a gentle breeze.

Cleaning and Drying Rhubarb Seeds

1. Cleaning: After extraction, remove any remaining debris or chaff from the seeds by gently blowing or sifting them.
2. Drying: Spread the seeds in a single layer on a clean surface and allow them to air dry completely. Thorough drying is essential to prevent mold or rot during storage.

Suitable Storage Conditions

1. Temperature: Rhubarb seeds should be stored at a cool temperature, ideally between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C). This helps maintain seed viability and prevent premature germination.
2. Humidity: Low humidity levels are crucial for seed storage. Aim for a relative humidity of around 30-40% to prevent moisture-related damage.
3. Light: Store rhubarb seeds in a dark or low-light environment. Exposure to direct sunlight can deteriorate the seed quality and reduce viability.

Choosing Appropriate Containers

1. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture and pests from reaching the seeds. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or sealed plastic containers are suitable options.
2. Moisture-Proof Containers: If using paper envelopes or cloth bags for storage, ensure they are moisture-proof to prevent seed damage due to humidity fluctuations.

Labeling and Organizing

1. Labeling: Clearly label each container with the variety name, harvest date, and any other relevant information. This will help you easily identify and organize the seeds.
2. Organizing: Store seeds in a systematic manner, such as alphabetically by variety or chronologically by harvest date. This will make it easier to locate and access the desired seeds when needed.

Longevity and Viability of Rhubarb Seeds

1. Lifespan: Under ideal storage conditions, rhubarb seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years. However, factors such as the rhubarb variety and storage environment can affect seed longevity.
2. Factors Affecting Viability: High temperatures, excessive humidity, and exposure to light can shorten the lifespan of rhubarb seeds. Proper storage conditions are crucial for maintaining seed viability over time.

Testing Seed Viability

1. Germination Test: The most reliable way to determine seed viability is through a germination test. Sow a small sample of seeds in a suitable growing medium and observe their germination rate.
2. Float Test: Another simple method is the float test. Place the seeds in a glass of water. Viable seeds will sink to the bottom, while non-viable seeds will float on the surface.

Summary and Conclusion

Proper storage of rhubarb seeds is essential for preserving seed viability, maintaining genetic diversity, and ensuring successful future plantings. By following the steps outlined in this article, gardeners can effectively store rhubarb seeds and reap the benefits of seed saving, including cost savings, genetic preservation, and the joy of propagating new rhubarb plants.

References:

1. Rhubarb Seed Collection: When to Harvest Seeds From Rhubarb Plants
2. Saving rhubarb seed?
3. Saving Seeds – RHUBARB

FAQs

What is the best time to harvest rhubarb seeds?

Rhubarb seeds are ready for harvest when the seed heads turn brown and dry, typically in late summer or early fall.

How do I harvest rhubarb seeds?

Cut off the seed heads and place them in a paper bag or container. Allow the seed heads to dry completely, then shake or rub them to release the seeds. Separate the seeds from the chaff and debris using a sieve or a gentle breeze.

How do I clean and dry rhubarb seeds?

Gently blow or sift the seeds to remove any remaining debris or chaff. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a clean surface and allow them to air dry completely.

What are the suitable storage conditions for rhubarb seeds?

Store rhubarb seeds in airtight and moisture-proof containers at a cool temperature (40°F to 50°F or 4°C to 10°C) and low humidity (30-40%). Keep the seeds in a dark or low-light environment to maintain their viability.

How long do rhubarb seeds remain viable?

Under ideal storage conditions, rhubarb seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years. However, factors such as the rhubarb variety and storage environment can affect seed longevity.

How can I test the viability of rhubarb seeds?

Conduct a germination test by sowing a small sample of seeds in a suitable growing medium and observing their germination rate. Alternatively, perform a float test by placing the seeds in a glass of water; viable seeds will sink to the bottom, while non-viable seeds will float on the surface.

Why is it important to store rhubarb seeds properly?

Proper storage of rhubarb seeds is essential for preserving seed viability, maintaining genetic diversity, and ensuring successful future plantings. It allows gardeners to save seeds from different varieties, propagate new plants without purchasing them, and share seeds with other gardening enthusiasts.