If you’re looking to grow more Angel’s Trumpets (Brugmansia), the easiest way is definitely through cuttings. But, if you’re a gardener who loves a good challenge and wants to see the whole lifecycle of this stunning plant, harvesting your own seeds after the blooming season is a super rewarding project!
Get Ready in the Fall
Waiting for the blooming period to end can take a bit of patience. While these beauties usually start showing off their flowers in June, they often keep going strong right through October. Once the flowers fade, seed pods will begin to form. Unlike some plants, Angel’s Trumpet pods don’t just pop open when they’re ready, so you’ll need a little bit of intuition here. The golden rule? Wait until the pods have turned completely brown before you pick them.
Safety First: They’re Toxic!
Before you head out to harvest, grab a pair of gardening gloves. It’s important to remember that Angel’s Trumpets are toxic plants. While the whole plant should be handled with care, the seeds actually contain a particularly high concentration of toxins. Better safe than sorry!
Extracting and Drying the Seeds
Depending on which variety of Angel’s Trumpet you have, the seeds can look pretty different. Some are wedge-shaped, while others look more like little kidneys. Their texture varies too—some are smooth, while others are bumpy or “warty.” Regardless of what they look like, the most important step is drying them out before storage. Just spread them out in a shallow bowl and keep them in a dry room. Aim for a steady temperature of around 68°F (20°C) for the best results.
Sowing Your Seeds
When spring rolls around and you’re ready to start your new plants, it’s all about moisture and warmth. Start by planting your seeds in pots filled with a good seed-starting mix. To keep the humidity up and prevent the soil from drying out too fast, I recommend covering the pots with a clear plastic bag or a humidity dome. Just make sure to check on them regularly and keep that soil consistently moist!
To wrap it up, here’s your quick checklist for harvesting Angel’s Trumpet seeds:
- Be patient and wait for the pods to fully ripen (turn brown).
- Always wear gloves when handling the pods and seeds.
- Dry the seeds in a bowl at a steady 68°F (20°C) before storing.
