Abstract
Indeterminate wildflowers with pappus-bearing seed are difficult to effectively harvest at yields approaching maximum potential using traditional equipment. We modified a Flail-Vac Seed Stripper by mounting heavy loops of chain to the front of the Flail-Vac to provide agitation of the floral canopy to disarticulate seed from the flowers of hoary tansyaster (Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) A. Gray [Asteraceae]). The modification allowed for multiple, non-damaging harvests that collected only shatter-ready, fully ripe seed. Labor and time associated with post-harvest drying and seed cleaning were reduced because of the decrease in vegetative matter accumulated.
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