An introduction to seed collection and propagation. This presentation will examine what the full process entails from seed to plant. We will discuss seed collection and cleaning practices, useful tools, sowing, and finally the propagation process. The presentation will center on native plants, but the theory and practice can be applied across the garden. This presentation is intended for the seed collection and propagation beginner; no prior knowledge is needed! 

Presenter: Calla Butler is the Native Plant Gardens Horticulturist at Matthaei Botanical Gardens, where she manages the Great Lakes Garden. Drawing on a lifetime of experience rooted in her family’s native plant nursery, she leads volunteers in cultivating over 300 regional species through hands-on maintenance, propagation, and invasive species removal.