Collecting Seeds

I'd like to collect seeds from some of my annuals, such as impatiens, but I don't know where to start. Can you help?

—Bea Spanninga, Rockford, Michigan

Melinda: Seed saving can be a fun adventure. To do this, allow seeds to ripen fully. You can tell they're ripe when the pods that contain them are dry. Rub or break the pods to remove the seeds and then place the dried seeds in an airtight container (a small jar or a film canister works well). Don't forget to label the container. Store the seeds in a cool dark place, such as the refrigerator, for winter before planting them next season.