Troublesome Sedge (Carex molesta)

Seed Collection Time:

Mid to late summer — typically July through September depending on your region.

Signs seeds are ready:

• The seed heads turn from green to yellow-brown or tan.

• Perigynia become firm, dry, and papery, with a slightly rough texture.

• Seeds inside are dark, hard, and ready when perigynia detach easily with gentle rubbing.

Seed collection steps:

1. Use scissors or snips to clip mature seed spikes when color begins to fade and dry.

2. Place heads in a paper bag or mesh container and let them air dry for 1–2 weeks.

3. Once dry, rub or lightly crush the spikes to release perigynia.

4. Use a fine screen or sieve to clean the seeds from debris.

Germination tip:

• Requires cold-moist stratification for 60–90 days.

• C(60–90): Store in moist sand or vermiculite in the fridge, or sow in fall to allow natural stratification.