Harvesting and Storing Iris Seeds for Alaska's Long Winter

Harvest

Collect pods when they start splitting. Open over paper plate, let seeds fall.

Storage

Cool, dry, dark (plastic bag or glass jar).

Stratification (Required)

1. Damp paper towel, sealed bag, fridge 60–90 days (2–3 months).
2. Sow in pots, warm & damp.
3. Germination in ~1 month (can be erratic over months).

Seedling Care

• Look like grass initially.
• After last frost, acclimate 10 days in shade, then full sun.
• Bloom in 2–3 years.