Viable Indigo
October 27, 2009
I’ve sent out and distributed to at least 30 seed packets to a range of those interested in starting their own dye gardens. One pertinent question came in from a reader in New York- regarding seed viability. She had experienced many unsuccessful Indigo seed germinating trials. I realized it would be a good idea to do a more in depth viability study on my seed, so that I could be very clear with people about what I was sending them! One other important bit to understand in relation to germination of this seed, is that you must use it when it is fresh- within the year that you receive it is best.
The good news- that I am so happy to share, is that after taking samples of seed from a range of the plants (both pink and white flowering), and testing in them in various conditions (under a heat lamp + seed heat mat, as well as using the kitchen window sill), the seed germinated with approximately 90% viability. If you received seed– keep it in your refrigerator until it is planting time (this is regionally specific). In my area I plant my annuals indoors in the late winter, and early spring for a summer harvest.
I received the most lovely cards, letters, handmade paper, and envelopes from some of the seed buyers– I must thank you all for the creativity and beauty that you shared with me. I will keep them forever, as a testament to the beginning of this journey I have begun as a harvester and disperser. The other wonderful news, is that there is so much more than I expected. My plants went into real production mode this last summer, and I have enough seed it seems to dye the entirety of my neighborhood’s clothing blue. If you would like seed-there is more!
October 27, 2009 at 9:45 pm
hurrah! good news.
October 27, 2009 at 11:21 pm
oh , I must have missed this before. I have been searching for some indigo seed in vain online… yes please! just tell me what i have to do!
November 6, 2009 at 4:59 am
I wanted to let you know I did receive my seeds (a while ago)! I am so excited to plant them next spring and I’m glad you like the paper! –Liz
November 16, 2009 at 3:01 am
What a wonderful post.
I love indigo….but know next to nothing about the process of growing the plants to producing the dye.
I must stay tuned in case you tell more on this. I am very interested in seeds and seed saving. I have read laws are very strict in the US due to transnationals making grief for those with desire to share and market heritage seeds.
from australia,
best,
Sophie
November 16, 2009 at 7:33 am
Hi Sophie
Thank you so much for your comment.
It is so nice to hear from Australian readers, I love it!
I’d be more than happy to send you some seeds (the packets are pretty undetectable because the seed is so small. I do send growing and dye instructions. It is a fairly easy plant to grow, and quite beautiful.
All the best,
Rebecca
September 2, 2012 at 7:01 am
Hi! I wanted to let you know that I planted seeds I saved from last years plants and also seeds from the refrigerator that I received from you a few years ago, and they all sprouted! The older seeds did not produce plants as hardy as the new seeds but they are still pretty good plants.