📌 Quick Read
Saving seeds from open-pollinated tomatoes is easy and cost-effective. It allows you to reuse seeds year after year without buying packaged hybrid seeds. Avoid F1 (hybrid) varieties for seed saving.
🔎 Deep Dive
Materials Needed:
- Healthy, ripe tomatoes (open-pollinated varieties)
- Knife
- Spoon
- Paper towel
- Glass jar
- Sieve
- Paper plate
- Paper envelope
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Select Tomatoes
Choose a couple of healthy, fully ripe tomatoes. Pick them from the plant when they are at peak ripeness.
2. Extract Seeds
Halve the tomatoes and scoop the seeds into a shallow jar filled with water. Cover with a paper towel.
- This starts a simple wet fermentation process which removes the gelatinous coating around seeds — this coating can inhibit germination.
3. Fermentation
Let the seeds ferment until they sink to the bottom of the jar. This process usually takes 2–4 days depending on conditions.
- Once complete, pour the contents into a sieve and rinse thoroughly with water to remove any remaining coating.
4. Dry Seeds
Spread the cleaned seeds on a paper plate to dry completely. Avoid paper towels, as seeds may stick.
- Drying thoroughly prevents mold during storage.
5. Store Seeds
Place dried seeds in a paper envelope and store in a dark, cool place until planting season.
- Clearly label each envelope with the tomato variety and date of storage.
💡 Pro Tip: Seeds saved this way can remain viable for several years if stored properly. Always ensure seeds come from healthy plants for the best results.
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