Saving tomato seeds is a rewarding process that allows gardeners to cultivate their favorite varieties year after year. This guide outlines a simple, traditional method for collecting seeds from ripe tomatoes.
While heirloom and open-pollinated tomatoes are the most reliable for seed saving, this technique can be applied to any tomato type, including hybrids. The key is to start with fully ripe fruit.
To begin, scoop out the seeds from the tomato and place them in a container with a bit of water. Allow the mixture to ferment for a few days, which helps to separate the seeds from the gel. After fermentation, rinse the seeds and let them dry completely before storing.