Seed Gathering Season is celebrated each year from September 23 to October 23. The month-long celebration is observed in the U.K. just before the winter chill sets in. People collect their favorite seeds and plant them ahead of the winter so that the seeds have enough time to germinate when spring finally arrives. The celebration was started to encourage more and more people to take up gardening and planting trees for future generations. At a time when worries of deforestation are plaguing us all, Seed Gathering Season is a wonderful way of doing our bit to make the Earth green again.
History of Seed Gathering Season
Seed Gathering Season is celebrated when autumn officially begins in the U.K. The month has been observed each year since 1998 and the celebrations are organized by The Tree Council. The Council puts it this way: “By gathering seeds (and growing them into trees!), you can help make sure that our treescapes continue to thrive in the future.” Seeds are planted in their hundreds each year so that there’s enough green cover for the future. Throughout the month, people look for the seeds of native trees that can bear the winter chill. These plants grow up to be the next generation of trees that give us shade, fruits, and clean air.
People are also encouraged to learn to first identify the different kinds of seeds. They are cautioned not to gather more than necessary since the wildlife relies on the nuts and seeds too. There are many kinds of seeds, and it is best to gather them from the ground rather than picking them from plants. It is also advisable with tall trees since injuries could occur from climbing. Plant physiologists, ecologists, geneticists, and forest managers also find harvesting seeds from tall trees daunting, and they have specialized techniques.
In 2021 different seed gathering platforms hosted online get-togethers to discuss seeds and have workshops. There were also talks to celebrate the assortment, chances, and cultural connections of seeds in the U.K. and Ireland.
Seed Gathering Season timeline
Plants are kept in enclosed outdoor spaces.
Well-decorated gardens become a trend among the affluent.
The Spanish Royalty builds gardens in public places.
Gardens become public spaces for meeting and merriment.
Seed Gathering Season FAQs
How do you collect seeds from flowers?
Always harvest seeds from your best plants. Use clean, sharp shears to cut the pods or seed heads from the plant. Place them into a paper collection bag. This allows the seeds to dry.
What is the best way to collect seeds?
Buckets or bags are used for seed collecting. Bear in mind the high moisture content of tree fruits and seeds. If they are kept in sealed containers for any length of time, they will begin to heat up and deteriorate.
What is the natural way to germinate seeds?
Seeds have been sprouting into trees for an extremely long time without our help. The “natural way” to germinate tree seeds is to allow nature to take its course.
How to Observe Seed Gathering Season
Gather seeds
Gather seeds responsibly by collecting fallen seeds from trees, flowers, and fruits. Take care to not harm a plant while collecting its seeds.
Make compost
Make your own compost using manure, vegetable and fruit peels, and soil. Plant your seed in the compost and wait for it to germinate in spring.
Gift seeds
You can celebrate Seed Gathering Season by gifting seeds to your friends who enjoy gardening. Seeds make for very thoughtful gifts.
5 Facts About Seeds That Will Blow Your Mind
Orchid pods are bountiful
They may contain up to three million seeds.
Coconuts are seeds
Double coconuts are the largest seeds in the world.
Seeds are very sturdy
Some seeds may live up to 10,000 years in perfect condition.
Oaks are late bloomers
They might not give their first acorns until they are 50 years old.
They are a source of food
Seeds are a source of food for people and various animals.
Why Seed Gathering Season is Important
It’s good for our mental well-being
Gardening and being in the company of plants are good for your mental well-being. Spending long amounts of time in nature can make you happy, calm, and stress-free.
It preserves native plants
Planting seeds preserve native plants that are important to the local ecosystem. This in turn also preserves local birds and animals.
Seeds for a green future
Planting seeds today means gifting trees to future generations. The trees will help battle climate change, give fruits and shade, and teach children the importance of nature.
Seed Gathering Season dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 23 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 23 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 23 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 23 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 23 | Saturday |
Log In With Google