Collecting seeds from Lupins

When the seed pods have turned brown, remove the pods from the plant and open them up. Seeds should be available to harvest during July and August. Store the seeds in a cool, dry dark place until you intend to sow them. The seeds should keep for three years or more if stored correctly. The older the seeds, the more important it is to soak them before sowing around March time.

Taking basal cuttings from Lupins

During April, the strong basal shoots of herbaceous perennials make easy, quick-rooting cuttings.

By following these simple steps from BBC Gardeners World, you can make lots of new plants, which gives you plenty of scope to try out different planting ideas. And you can use this technique on all manner of beautiful border perennials.

You Will Need

• A sharp knife
• A dibber or chopstick
• Sharp grit
• Clear plastic bag

Step 1
Select a plant with plenty of strong basal shoots, 10-12cm long, and choose three or four for your cuttings. Make a clean cut, severing the shoot as near to the base as possible.

Step 2
Neaten the cut if necessary, then use a sharp knife to remove any basal leaves that may end up under the compost surface. Pinch out the top with your nails.

Step 3
Use a dibber or chopstick to ease the cuttings into the compost, sinking them to at least 2.5cm deep. Cuttings will root most readily if placed around the edge.

Step 4
Cover the compost surface with sharp grit to discourage weeds and retain moisture. Water and mist the cuttings frequently to cut down on loss of moisture through the leaves.

Step 5
Place a clear plastic bag over your cuttings after watering to keep them damp.