Question
I live in San Jose, CA in zone 9b. I have planted purchased Nasturtium seeds and know that they will grow year round in my location.  

I have collected green seeds from my plants. Can these be planted while they are green, or do I have to wait until they have dried out?

Also what is your best suggestion for how to get rid of aphids on Nasturtium plants.  I have tried the dish detergent in water - this did not work.  

In advance, thank you for your response.

Answer
Jane, all seeds harvested from plants require a dormant period of approximately three months. The seeds need to completely dry out and should be kept in a cool, dry location for that time. After allowing them to dry for three days, I store my seeds in a sealed plastic bag, which I place in a Tupperware container in the back of my refrigerator. This has always worked well and improves your percentage of germination.

For aphids, I use a combination of rotenone and pyrethrum. These are sold either separately or in a combination spray. These are organic insecticides, derived from plants, and can be purchased as a dust or spray. They are non-toxic, and can be applied up to the day of harvest with no ill-effects whatsoever to humans. You can find these and other organic products at your local garden center or on-line at sites such as Planet Natural or Gardens Alive.

One trick I have found over the years to deter aphids is to plant garlic bulbs around the susceptible plants. Aphids cannot tolerate the smell. I also plant marigolds, which also seem to deter aphids and other flying pests.

I hope this information helps. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike