As summer reaches its peak and gardens are in full bloom, August is the perfect time to start harvesting and storing seeds for next year’s garden. Seed saving is a wonderful way to preserve your favorite flowers and ensure that your garden continues to thrive season after season. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, knowing which seeds to collect and how to store them can make a big difference. This guide will walk you through 30 fantastic flowers whose seeds are ready to be harvested in August, complete with tips on collection and storage.
August seed harvesting is more than just a task; it’s an act of love for your garden. There’s something deeply satisfying about collecting seeds from plants you’ve nurtured and knowing you’ll be able to grow them again next year. Plus, saving seeds can save you money and allow you to share your favorite flowers with friends and fellow gardeners. Let’s dive into the diverse world of flowers that you can harvest this month, starting with some well-known favorites and moving into more unique blooms.
Bachelor’s Button (Centaurea cyanus)
Bachelor’s Button, also known as Cornflower, is a charming addition to any garden with its bright blue blooms. Native to Europe, these hardy annuals are easy to grow and thrive in well-drained soil under full sun. The flowers are not just pretty; they are also edible and can be used to garnish salads or decorate cakes. When it comes to seed harvesting, wait until the flowers fade and the seed heads turn brown. Gently shake the heads over a container to collect the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place, and they’ll be ready for next spring.
One thing I love about Bachelor’s Button is how low-maintenance they are. They’re perfect for those who are new to gardening or for anyone who wants a splash of color without a lot of fuss. Plus, they attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for a pollinator-friendly garden. Keep an eye out for pests, though; aphids and slugs can sometimes be an issue. But overall, these resilient flowers are a joy to grow and share.
Hollyhock (Alcea)
Hollyhocks are quintessential cottage garden flowers, with their tall spikes and colorful blooms that can reach up to 8 feet in height. Native to Asia and Europe, these biennials and perennials add a touch of old-world charm to any garden. To harvest Hollyhock seeds, wait until the flower spikes have dried and turned brown. Break open the seed pods to release the seeds, and let them dry completely before storing them in a paper envelope or glass jar.
I find Hollyhocks incredibly rewarding to grow despite their tendency to rust, a common fungal disease. They thrive best in full sun and well-drained soil, and they can even tolerate some drought once established. If you’re looking for a plant that provides vertical interest and attracts hummingbirds, Hollyhocks are an excellent choice. Just be prepared for their biennial nature, meaning they might not flower until their second year. But trust me, the wait is worth it!
Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus)
Sweet William is a delightful biennial known for its clusters of fragrant, colorful flowers. Native to southern Europe and parts of Asia, this flower is loved for its sweet scent and attractive blooms that come in shades of pink, red, and white. To harvest Sweet William seeds, wait until the flower heads have dried on the plant. Cut the heads and place them in a paper bag to catch the seeds as they fall out. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them.
One of my favorite things about Sweet William is its versatility. It works well in borders, containers, and even as a cut flower. It’s also relatively easy to care for, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While it’s not particularly prone to pests, keeping an eye out for aphids and caterpillars is always a good idea. Sweet William’s charming clusters and delightful fragrance make it a must-have in any garden.
Cosmos
Cosmos are vibrant annuals that bring a touch of whimsy to the garden with their daisy-like flowers. Native to Mexico, these flowers are beloved for their ability to thrive in poor soil and hot, dry conditions. To harvest Cosmos seeds, wait until the flower heads are fully dry and brown. Gently rub the heads to release the long, slender seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place for planting next year.
What I love about Cosmos is their ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to a pollinator garden. They’re also incredibly easy to grow from seed, making them perfect for beginners. Simply scatter the seeds in the garden after the last frost, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning display of blooms throughout the summer. Just be sure to deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Echinacea (Coneflower)
Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, is a hardy perennial native to North America. Known for its distinctive cone-shaped centers and vibrant petals, Echinacea is not only beautiful but also valued for its medicinal properties. To harvest Echinacea seeds, allow the flower heads to dry on the plant. Once they’re dry, cut them off and remove the seeds by rubbing the heads over a container. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant.
One of the reasons I love Echinacea is its resilience. These plants are drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions, making them a low-maintenance choice for any garden. They also attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Whether you’re growing them for their beauty or their health benefits, Echinacea is a fantastic addition to your garden. Just keep in mind that they prefer full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis, also known as Tickseed, is a cheerful addition to any garden with its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. Native to North and South America, this perennial is prized for its long blooming period and ease of care. To harvest Coreopsis seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently crush the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I’m always impressed by how versatile Coreopsis is. It can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, from sandy to clay, and is drought-tolerant once established. Plus, it attracts butterflies and other pollinators, adding life and movement to the garden. While Coreopsis is generally pest-free, it’s important to watch out for powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. With its bright blooms and hardy nature, Coreopsis is a wonderful choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Foxglove (Digitalis)
Foxgloves are tall, striking biennials known for their tubular flowers that grow on spires up to six feet tall. Native to Europe, these flowers are often found in woodland gardens and borders. To harvest Foxglove seeds, wait until the flower spikes have dried and the seed pods have turned brown. Cut the spikes and shake the pods over a container to collect the tiny seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place.
I adore Foxgloves for their majestic appearance and the way they can add height and drama to any garden. However, it’s important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so they should be planted with care, especially in gardens frequented by children and pets. Despite this, their beauty and the variety of colors available make Foxgloves a popular choice. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, making them ideal for woodland gardens.
Calendula
Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, is a cheerful annual that produces bright, daisy-like flowers. Native to southwestern Asia and Europe, Calendula is known for its medicinal properties and its ability to thrive in cool climates. To harvest Calendula seeds, allow the flower heads to dry on the plant. Once dry, remove the heads and extract the seeds, then store them in a cool, dry place.
What I love most about Calendula is its versatility. It’s not only a beautiful flower but also a useful herb in the garden. The petals are edible and can be used in salads or as a natural dye. Calendula is also known for its skin-healing properties and is often used in homemade salves and lotions. It’s easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Just be sure to deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
Delphinium
Delphiniums are stunning perennials known for their tall spikes of blue, pink, white, or purple flowers. Native to the Northern Hemisphere and high mountainous regions of Africa, these flowers add a touch of elegance to any garden. To harvest Delphinium seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Gently open the pods to collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I find Delphiniums to be one of the most striking additions to a garden, thanks to their towering flower spikes and vivid colors. They thrive best in cooler climates and require rich, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. While they can be a bit finicky and prone to diseases like powdery mildew, the effort is well worth it for the stunning display they provide. Staking the plants can help support their tall growth and protect them from wind damage.
Marigold (Tagetes)
Marigolds are vibrant annuals known for their bright orange and yellow flowers. Native to Mexico and Central America, these flowers are a staple in many gardens due to their ease of care and pest-repelling properties. To harvest Marigold seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Remove the heads and separate the seeds from the petals. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
I absolutely love Marigolds for their cheerful colors and the way they can brighten up any garden space. They’re incredibly easy to grow from seed and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making them perfect for beginners. Plus, they’re known to deter pests like aphids and nematodes, making them a great companion plant for vegetables. Whether planted in borders, containers, or as a companion plant, Marigolds are a must-have in any garden.
Larkspur (Consolida)
Larkspur is an elegant annual that produces tall spikes of blue, pink, white, or purple flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, Larkspur adds a touch of grace to any garden. To harvest Larkspur seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Carefully open the pods to collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of my favorite things about Larkspur is its ability to add height and color to the garden without much effort. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While they can be a bit sensitive to overwatering, they’re generally easy to care for and make excellent cut flowers. Larkspur is also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to the garden.
Aquilegia (Columbine)
Aquilegia, commonly known as Columbine, is a charming perennial native to the woodlands of Europe and North America. Known for its distinctive spurred flowers, Columbine adds a whimsical touch to any garden. To harvest Columbine seeds, allow the seed pods to dry on the plant. Once dry, gently shake the pods to release the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place.
I adore Columbine for its delicate, nodding flowers that come in a variety of colors. They’re perfect for shady gardens and woodland settings, thriving in partial shade and well-drained soil. Columbine is also relatively low-maintenance, making it a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Plus, they’re deer-resistant and attract hummingbirds, adding to their appeal. Just be aware that they can self-seed prolifically, so you may find new plants popping up in unexpected places.
Alyssum
Alyssum is a low-growing annual known for its fragrant clusters of tiny white, pink, or purple flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, Alyssum is often used as a ground cover or in rock gardens. To harvest Alyssum seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently rub the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of the things I love most about Alyssum is its sweet fragrance, which can fill a garden with a delightful scent. It’s also incredibly easy to grow and care for, making it perfect for beginners. Alyssum prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, and it’s excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Whether used as a border plant, in containers, or as a ground cover, Alyssum adds beauty and fragrance to any garden.
Zinnia
Zinnias are bright, cheerful annuals that are a favorite in many gardens. Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, these flowers are known for their vibrant colors and long blooming period. To harvest Zinnia seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Remove the heads and separate the seeds from the petals. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
I find Zinnias to be one of the most rewarding flowers to grow due to their ease of care and stunning blooms. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re incredibly drought-tolerant once established. Zinnias are also fantastic for attracting pollinators, making them a great choice for a pollinator garden. With so many colors and varieties to choose from, Zinnias can add a splash of color to any garden setting.
Salvia
Salvia is a diverse genus of plants that includes both annuals and perennials, known for their spiky flowers and aromatic foliage. Native to various regions around the world, Salvias are popular for their hardiness and long blooming period. To harvest Salvia seeds, wait until the flower spikes are dry and brown. Gently shake the spikes over a container to collect the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place.
What I love about Salvia is its versatility and the variety of colors available, from deep blues and purples to vibrant reds and pinks. They’re excellent for adding vertical interest to the garden and are also known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. Salvias prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re generally low-maintenance. Whether used in borders, containers, or as part of a pollinator garden, Salvia is a great choice for any garden.
Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
Rudbeckia, commonly known as Black-Eyed Susan, is a hardy perennial native to North America. Known for its bright yellow petals and dark brown centers, Rudbeckia is a cheerful addition to any garden. To harvest Rudbeckia seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Cut the heads and remove the seeds by shaking them over a container. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
I love Rudbeckia for its resilience and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions. They’re drought-tolerant and can handle poor soil, making them a low-maintenance option for any garden. Rudbeckia is also excellent for attracting pollinators, and its long blooming period ensures a splash of color from summer through fall. Whether planted in borders, wildflower meadows, or containers, Rudbeckia is a versatile and reliable choice.
Sunflower (Helianthus)
Sunflowers are iconic annuals known for their tall stems and large, bright yellow flowers. Native to North America, these flowers are loved for their striking appearance and ability to attract pollinators. To harvest Sunflower seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and the seeds are plump. Cut the heads and remove the seeds by rubbing them out of the flower head. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
One of the things I adore about Sunflowers is their sheer presence in the garden. They can grow incredibly tall, making them a stunning focal point. Sunflowers are also very easy to grow from seed, making them perfect for gardeners of all levels. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re relatively drought-tolerant. Plus, the seeds can be roasted for a tasty snack or left out to feed birds, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to growing these beauties.
Nigella (Love-in-a-Mist)
Nigella, commonly known as Love-in-a-Mist, is an annual flower known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and unique, seed-filled pods. Native to southern Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia, Nigella adds a whimsical touch to any garden. To harvest Nigella seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Cut the pods and gently shake them to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
I find Nigella to be one of the most enchanting flowers with its airy foliage and intricate seed pods. It’s incredibly easy to grow and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Nigella also self-seeds readily, so you can enjoy its beauty year after year with minimal effort. The seed pods can be used in dried flower arrangements, adding to their charm. Whether used in borders, containers, or as a filler in flower arrangements, Nigella is a delightful addition to any garden.
Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet Peas are beloved annuals known for their fragrant, delicate flowers that come in a variety of colors. Native to the Mediterranean region, these climbers add a romantic touch to any garden. To harvest Sweet Pea seeds, wait until the pods are dry and brown. Gently open the pods to collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I absolutely love Sweet Peas for their intoxicating fragrance and the way they can quickly cover a trellis or fence with blooms. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be a bit finicky about heat, but with the right care, they’re incredibly rewarding to grow. Sweet Peas thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms and help prevent unwanted self-seeding. Whether grown in a cottage garden or a container, Sweet Peas are sure to delight.
Verbena
Verbena is a versatile annual or perennial known for its clusters of small, brightly colored flowers. Native to the Americas and Asia, Verbena is prized for its long blooming period and ability to attract pollinators. To harvest Verbena seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently crush the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of my favorite things about Verbena is its adaptability. It can thrive in both garden beds and containers, and it’s tolerant of heat and drought once established. Verbena prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is generally low-maintenance. The vibrant blooms can add a splash of color to any garden setting, and their nectar-rich flowers are a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds. Whether used in hanging baskets, borders, or as ground cover, Verbena is a reliable and beautiful choice.
Poppy (Papaver)
Poppies are enchanting annuals and perennials known for their delicate, papery flowers and vibrant colors. Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, these flowers are a symbol of remembrance and beauty. To harvest Poppy seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Cut the pods and shake them over a container to collect the tiny seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place.
I’m always captivated by the ethereal beauty of Poppies. They’re relatively easy to grow and can thrive in poor soil, making them a great choice for beginners. Poppies prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and they can self-seed prolifically, ensuring their presence in your garden for years to come. While they can be short-lived, the stunning display they provide makes them well worth the effort. Whether used in wildflower gardens, borders, or as cut flowers, Poppies add a touch of magic to any garden.
Penstemon
Penstemon, also known as Beard-tongue, is a striking perennial known for its tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds. Native to North America, Penstemon adds a splash of color and vertical interest to any garden. To harvest Penstemon seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Gently shake the pods over a container to collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of the reasons I love Penstemon is its ability to thrive in various conditions, from dry, rocky soils to well-drained garden beds. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Penstemon is also relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. The vibrant flowers come in a range of colors, from deep reds to bright pinks and purples, adding a pop of color to the garden. Whether used in borders, rock gardens, or as part of a pollinator garden, Penstemon is a fantastic choice.
Phlox
Phlox is a versatile perennial known for its clusters of fragrant, colorful flowers. Native to North America, Phlox is prized for its ability to bloom throughout the summer. To harvest Phlox seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Gently crush the pods to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I’m always delighted by the vibrant colors and sweet fragrance of Phlox. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, providing good air circulation and watering at the base can help prevent this issue. Phlox is excellent for attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees, making them a great addition to a pollinator garden. Whether used in borders, rock gardens, or as ground cover, Phlox adds beauty and fragrance to any garden.
Yarrow (Achillea)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial known for its flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers and feathery foliage. Native to Europe and Asia, Yarrow is valued for its medicinal properties and drought tolerance. To harvest Yarrow seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently rub the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of the things I appreciate most about Yarrow is its resilience. It can thrive in poor soil and drought conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for any garden. Yarrow prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s excellent for attracting beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs. The flowers can also be used in dried arrangements, adding to their versatility. Whether used in borders, wildflower gardens, or as part of a medicinal herb garden, Yarrow is a fantastic choice.
Lupine (Lupinus)
Lupines are striking perennials known for their tall spikes of pea-like flowers. Native to North and South America, these flowers add a touch of drama to any garden. To harvest Lupine seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Gently open the pods to collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I love Lupines for their bold colors and ability to attract pollinators. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. While they can be a bit picky about their growing conditions, the stunning display they provide is well worth the effort. Lupines are also nitrogen-fixers, which means they can improve soil fertility, making them a great companion plant. Whether used in borders, wildflower gardens, or as part of a pollinator garden, Lupines are sure to impress.
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)
Gaillardia, also known as Blanket Flower, is a vibrant perennial known for its daisy-like flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Native to North and South America, Gaillardia is prized for its long blooming period and drought tolerance. To harvest Gaillardia seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently crush the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I find Gaillardia to be one of the most cheerful additions to the garden. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re incredibly drought-tolerant once established. Gaillardia is also excellent for attracting pollinators, making them a great choice for a pollinator garden. While they can be short-lived, they often self-seed, ensuring their presence in your garden for years to come. Whether used in borders, rock gardens, or as ground cover, Gaillardia adds a splash of color to any garden.
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum)
Snapdragons are charming annuals known for their tall spikes of tubular flowers that resemble a dragon’s mouth. Native to the Mediterranean region, Snapdragons add a whimsical touch to any garden. To harvest Snapdragon seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry and brown. Gently shake the pods to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I adore Snapdragons for their playful blooms and the way they can add vertical interest to the garden. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While they can be prone to rust and mildew, providing good air circulation and watering at the base can help prevent these issues. Snapdragons are also excellent for attracting pollinators, making them a great addition to a pollinator garden. Whether used in borders, containers, or as cut flowers, Snapdragons are sure to delight.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee Balm is a striking perennial known for its spiky flowers and aromatic foliage. Native to North America, Bee Balm is valued for its ability to attract pollinators and its medicinal properties. To harvest Bee Balm seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently crush the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
One of the things I love most about Bee Balm is its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It’s a great choice for a pollinator garden and can add a splash of color with its vibrant red, pink, or purple blooms. Bee Balm prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While it can be prone to powdery mildew, providing good air circulation and watering at the base can help prevent this issue. Whether used in borders, wildflower gardens, or as part of a medicinal herb garden, Bee Balm is a fantastic choice.
Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is a beloved perennial known for its fragrant, purple flowers and silvery foliage. Native to the Mediterranean region, Lavender is prized for its beauty and versatility. To harvest Lavender seeds, wait until the flower spikes are dry and brown. Gently shake the spikes to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I’m always enchanted by the soothing fragrance of Lavender. It’s not only a beautiful flower but also a useful herb in the garden. Lavender prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is incredibly drought-tolerant once established. It’s excellent for attracting pollinators and can also be used in sachets, potpourri, and culinary dishes. Whether used in borders, rock gardens, or as part of a herb garden, Lavender adds beauty and fragrance to any garden.
Clarkia
Clarkia is a charming annual known for its delicate, cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. Native to western North America, Clarkia adds a touch of elegance to any garden. To harvest Clarkia seeds, wait until the flower heads are dry and brown. Gently crush the heads to release the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place.
I find Clarkia to be one of the most graceful additions to the garden. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Clarkia is also relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. The delicate blooms are excellent for attracting pollinators and make lovely cut flowers. Whether used in borders, wildflower gardens, or containers, Clarkia adds beauty and elegance to any garden.
