Specifically, I'm wondering about sweet autumn clematis -- I just noticed that the seeds are all still clinging to the plant. I'd be happy to pluck them off and share them with people, if they're still good. (This is the first year that the clematis bloomed, because a tree that shaded it fell and suddenly it got enough sun!)

I am watching for an answer

I think they would be viable if the plant is hardy to your zone. It looks like you would need to figure out whether or not the seed is fertilized. Here's a link to discussion on the "fertilized" seed comparison

http://forums.gardenweb.com/fo...

link is missing

Thanks for the info! The seeds are looking pretty darn fertile, all right. I should go out and collect them while the weather's still dry....

I think the seeds are probably good. I'd pick them and dry them and try a few on a moist paper towel.
If it were a tropical plant then I would say no and don't bother.
This is how temperate zone plants reseed themselves in nature.

Thanks Caroline. I was hoping some one with a seed saving experience would chime in.

Is that link in the above post ok? I see it on my screen and it seems to work.

Jo - the link worked for me.

I have a Sweet Autumn Clematis and is should be fine. The seed is not hard to germinate just by casting where you would like a new plant. I would put a light mulch over the seed to keep it damp and cool. I also would put several in the spot and let the best seed win.

The seeds should be fine as long as they were mature before the plant (annual) died from frost. Most perennials would be fine I think.

Karen