Get Outside! Wildflower Seed Collecting Workshop to Preserve Native Plants and Genetic Diversity

A Get Outside! event presented by Partners for Climate Action, Dirty Gaia and Hudsonia Ltd. 

In this Get Outside! event, Plant Ecologist Clara Holmes led an engaging hands-on workshop to examine and identify native plants, discuss the significance of genetic diversity and learn essential techniques for collecting seeds. 

The workshop began indoors with a presentation explaining the importance of native plants in wildlife and pollinator habitat, and in the overall health and resilience of our ecosystems. We discussed the key steps to making a genetically diverse seed collection, and examine the role of genetic diversity in ensuring the long-term survival of plant species.

In the hands-on outdoor part of the workshop, we learned seed ripeness traits and effective seed collection techniques. Recognizing when seeds are mature and ready for collection ensures the highest chances of successful germination and growth. Clara provided guidance on the importance of ethical seed collection practices.