Star Sedge (Carex radiata)

Difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
(Moderate — seeds are small and timing is important, but collection is manageable)

Seed Collection Time:

Late spring to early summer — typically June through July

Signs Seeds are Ready:

• Slender green spikes mature and turn a light yellow-green to tan

• Star-shaped arrangement of spikelets becomes loose and droopy as seed ripens

• Seeds (achenes) inside perigynia feel firm and detach easily when rolled between fingers

• Mature perigynia fall off readily when gently shaken or rubbed

Tip: Look for a “golden blush” across the spike — a visual cue of ripeness.

Seed Collection Steps:

1. Snip mature flowering stems (culms) with dry or drying spikelets

2. Place cut spikes into paper bags or shallow trays

3. Let air dry for several days in a cool, dry location

4. Rub gently between hands or over a fine mesh to release perigynia

5. Clean by screening or winnowing — seeds are very small and can mix with fine chaff

Note: Collect before heavy rain or wind, which can cause seed drop.

Germination Tips:

• Benefits from cold moist stratification for 60–90 days

• Sow in fall for natural overwintering or stratify in fridge in moist medium

• Germination is slow and delicate, often taking weeks to months

Note: Seedlings are fine and grasslike — best started in flats or plug trays.