Sorting seed from the pods of the Golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha)

This property has brought with it a learning curve steeper than its erosion gullies. For example, over the summer we’ve been attempting to learn how to gather and germinate local indigenous species to prepare for planting when the rains return. It’s a pleasure that has seen our botanical Latin go through the roof.

A couple of resources have been invaluable in helping us do this. Todd Berkinshaw’s Mangroves to Mallee has been outstanding in both its assembly of the species present in different plant associations in South Australia, as well as its detailed information on common individual species. Neville Bonney’s What Seed Is That? is the bible for the aspiring South Australian native seed collector and has detailed profiles on seed gathering of individual plants from across central southern Australia. Continue reading →