Squarrose Sedge (Carex squarrosa)

Difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

Seed Collection Time:

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

Signs seeds are ready:

• The distinctive, spiky seed heads turn from green to golden brown or straw-colored as they mature.

• The perigynia (seed sacs) become dry and papery and start to angle outward—a hallmark of this species.

• Seeds are firm, dark-colored, and perigynia detach easily when gently rubbed.

Seed collection steps:

1. Use scissors or pruners to clip mature seed heads when they begin to dry and curve outward.

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

3. Rub or crush dried heads gently to release perigynia.

4. Clean using a fine screen or winnowing to separate seeds from chaff and debris.

Germination tip:

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

• C(60–90): Store in moist sand or paper towel in the refrigerator, or sow in fall for natural overwintering.