Collecting the Seeds

Collecting Simmondsia chinensis in Arizona, USA.(Photo: BLM AZ930, Seeds of Success)

Once the collecting team confirms that seed from the target plant species is suitable for harvesting, they collect seed randomly from the available plants at that location. Collectors use a range of manual harvesting techniques, but adapt these according to the seed dispersal characteristics of the targeted species. For example, tree seed clustered at the tip of high branches is often harvested with long-handled pruners, but fleshy fruits may be harvested individually by hand into plastic buckets.

Collectors usually avoid seed lying on the ground as it may have experienced aging or insect attack since it was shed. Wind-dispersed seed can often be harvested efficiently by rattling branches over a large tarpaulin. Pressed plant specimens (Herbarium specimens) are taken from one of the plants in seed.

More information on seed collecting techniques

Next: Collecting Data