Saving Moonflower (Datura) Seeds for Next Season

Harvest and Store Thornapple Seeds Safely

Moonflower (Datura spp.) produces spiny seed pods (“thornapples”) after flowering. All plant parts, including seeds, are highly toxic—wear gloves and keep away from children and pets.

Seed Collection

1. Allow pods to dry on the plant until they begin to split.
2. Cut pods off and open over a paper plate to catch seeds.
3. Store seeds in a sealed glass jar in a cool, dark, dry place.

Sowing Next Year

Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, like tomatoes (same family, Solanaceae). Germinate at 75°F; seedlings emerge in 2–4 weeks. Transplant outdoors after danger of frost.

Warning

Datura self-sows aggressively. Deadhead spent flowers if you don’t want volunteers everywhere.