Prickly Sedge (Carex stipata)

Seed Collection Time:

July – September (mid to late summer, depending on your region)

Signs seeds are ready:

• The spiky seed heads turn from green to golden brown or straw-colored

• The perigynia (sac-like seed coverings) become dry, firm, and papery

• Seeds inside will be hard and dark when mature

• Mature perigynia detach easily when rubbed or tugged

Seed collection steps:

1. Use scissors or garden snips to cut seed heads when they show signs of maturity.

2. Place them in paper bags or mesh containers to air dry for 1–2 weeks in a cool, dry place.

3. Once dry, gently crush or rub the heads to release the perigynia.

4. Use a sieve or screen to separate the seeds from chaff and plant debris.

Germination tip:

• Requires cold-moist stratification for 60–90 days:
  Mix seeds with moist sand or vermiculite and refrigerate, or sow outdoors in fall for natural stratification.