Water Avens (Geum rivale)

Seed Collection Time:

Late spring to early summer — typically June through July, depending on local bloom time.

Signs seeds are ready:

• Develops feathery, plume-tipped seed heads after flowering.

• Achenes (individual seed units) turn from green to brown and become dry and firm.

• Plumes become more prominent and fluffy, and seeds detach easily when rubbed.

Seed collection steps:

1. Collect seed heads when they are mostly dry and beginning to fluff out.

2. Place in a paper bag or shallow tray and let air dry for 1–2 weeks.

3. Gently rub or roll heads to release seeds.

4. Clean using screening or winnowing to remove excess fluff and debris.

Germination tip:

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

• C(60–90): Store in moist sand, vermiculite, or paper towel in the fridge, or sow outdoors in fall.

• Seeds may take several weeks to emerge in spring.