Use this method when the objective is to preserve a wide range of genetic diversity and to promote successful establishment and growth in the natural environment.
Collecting: Collect seeds from areas with the same conditions as the sites where they will be planted i.e. elevation, temperature, moisture, etc.
Cleaning: Viable seeds need to be separated from their fruit and cleaned. A simple way to do this is by macerating the fruit in a blender with water and floating off the pulp and bad seeds.
Storing: Moisture and temperature are critical in determining proper storage of seeds, although, most seeds can be stored for short periods of time at 0ºC or just above in air tight containers. Successful storage for extended periods of time requires knowledge of the specific seed characteristics of different species.
Pre-sowing: Stored seeds may require pre-sowing treatments i.e. stratification, to overcome dormancy.
Sowing: This process varies with the type and quality of the seed. After proper treatment (if required) seeds can be sown in flats and transplanted at a later date or when the roots have established. Some seeds do not require any pre-sowing treatment and can be planted on site immediately after collecting and cleaning or short-term storing.
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