Textile flax was once widely used in Quebec. The disappearance of 99% of Quebec's flax varieties gave us the idea to create a citizen participation program to preserve the remaining varieties. To participate, write to us at info@terrepromise.ca.

Flax Cultivation

Flax is directly sown in the garden after the last frosts. It requires full sun exposure and a rich soil (we recommend adding compost)..

Make sure the soil is level, as the seeds are small, and this will make your work easier.

Flax is typically sown broadcast-style, at a density of about 40 seeds per square foot. However, since we have very few seeds and our varieties are precious, it is better to sow them individually, spacing them about 5-8 cm apart. It is beneficial to sow flax densely because the plants will support each other against the elements.

Flax is sown on the surface, but birds may take advantage of this. You can gently rake the soil after sowing to ensure the seeds are in contact with the soil and slightly buried.

The seeds will germinate within 7 to 21 days.

Allow the plants to grow and weed as needed. Water as needed..

Harvest the seeds when the capsules are brown and dry.

(For fiber varieties, note that seeds are harvested after the time when fiber would normally be harvested. So, if you use the fiber, it will not be of top quality).

After harvesting, dry the capsules thoroughly on a plate or on a mesh screen.

You can extract the seeds yourself by rubbing the capsules between gardening gloves, or send them to us as they are, and we will take care of it!

For participants in the program, please send us photos of the various growth stages of your flax. This will help us properly document the variety.

Thank you for participating in the preservation of textile flax.