selfseeder

A selfseeder, or self-seeder, is a plant that readily produces viable seeds that germinate without deliberate human intervention, allowing new plants to appear in following seasons. The trait can be present in annuals, biennials, and perennials and is often exploited in naturalistic or low-maintenance garden styles.

Most self-seeders disperse seeds through lightweight fruits or pods that split open, gravity, or wind. Viable seeds can persist in topsoil for one or more seasons, enabling volunteers to emerge in borders, under shrubs, or in wildflower meadows. Some species also produce persistent seed banks in the soil.

Advantages of self-seeders include reduced planting effort, continual color through the growing season, and opportunities for plant biodiversity. Potential drawbacks are unwanted spread, crowding of desirable plants, and the need for occasional management to prevent overtaking.

Garden management strategies include deadheading to discourage reseeding when undesired, collecting seeds for controlled propagation, and planting self-seeders in designated areas. Choosing non-invasive or well-behaved species and using barriers or regular edging can limit spread.

Common self-seeders include annuals such as cosmos, California poppy, forget-me-not, alyssum, and nasturtium, as well as foxglove, nigella, and larkspur in some climates. These plants can provide early nectar for pollinators and contribute to a naturalistic or cottage-style garden, though invasiveness varies by region.