
Plants whose seeds are gel encased such as tomatoes need a few extra steps
Gardening is filled with plenty of its own rewards. One I never tire of is the joy of watching seeds I saved from a parent plant take root and begin to sprout. I enjoy the sense of pride I feel in knowing that I played an active role in perpetuating the next generation. It’s always exciting!
Saving seeds is an easy process once you know a few basic steps. First off, you should understand that not all seeds produce a plant that is identical to the parent plant. Hybrids, or first generation plants from two separate parent varieties, are an example of this. Open pollinated, or non-hybrids, can be expected to produce the same variety from seed as the parent. Heirloom varieties are an example of this type.
When collecting seeds from plants, you will find that some seeds are contained within fruit like tomatoes, others are found within a pod such as beans, and yet others are located on leaflets as spores like ferns. For this article, we’ll talk about seeds contained within fruits.
All seeds intended for storage should be clean and dry. This is usually a simple process to achieve. However, with some popular vegetables such as tomatoes and others that are incased in a gelatin-like substance, there are a few extra steps.
The first step is to scoop this material into a jar along with the seeds. You may want to add a small amount of water at this point. Now a fermentation process occurs that is actually good for tomato seeds. It kills off harmful bacteria and removes an inhibitor that would otherwise prevent these seeds from germinating. Let the fermenting seeds soak for about five days or until the fleshy material is no longer apparent.
Next, thoroughly rinse the seeds until they appear clean. A screen-mesh strainer works well for this. Then allow the seeds to dry by spreading them out on a coffee filter. With other paper products, such as paper towels, the seeds may stick. The drying process can take several days, so be patient.
Now, for all seed types, they should be clean and completely dry before storing. Seeds are dry when they will snap, crush, or break into smaller pieces when smashed. Seeds that are not dry enough will only bend. This dry test can be applied to just about all seeds.
The seeds to be stored must be kept completely dry. Airtight containers such as resealable plastic bags or film canisters work well. I even place a small packet of silica in with my seeds. These packets are found in many new products you purchase such as shoes and electronics. These packets are there for the same reason you need them. They absorb moisture.
The final step is to place the seeds in a cool dry place until you are ready to use them. The refrigerator is an ideal location. Most seeds saved and stored will last for several years under the proper conditions. A little work on the front end will provide many seasons of enjoyment and the convenience and assurance of having your favorite seeds available whenever you need them.
When storing dried seed in air tight containers, add one of those desiccate packages you get in the packing of other items. I save them in a glass jar so I can pop a pouch in with my seeds and herbs in a jiffy.
Thanks…..happy seeding
Are there new shows coming out? I’ve watched most of them two or more times. You’re on at 6:30 AM here so I have to get up early to watch but I LOVE your program!
Hi Kristy. As of yesterday, we just finished our 91st episode, so that’s the total so far through season 5. We will create 13 new episodes in 2015 for season 6. You may already know this but all our episodes that have aired on TV are viewable from our website. So just in case your station is stuck on only one or two seasons, nearly all 91 are viewable online now with the remainder online by the end of this year (one new one each week). Thanks also for the kind words. We love that you love our program! Thank you!
Thanks. I needed this information. I’ve got some tasty tomatoes, and want to save some seeds for next spring. I just found your show on Public Broadcasting System, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I’ve got my TV Recorder set to record your shows. Thanks again. Louis King
Great Louis. So glad you found us on your public television station. By the way, if you get a chance, the best way for us to stay on, on your local station is for you, as a member of their local audience, to let them know you really appreciate them airing our program. That really matters. Thanks again and good luck with your seed saving.
This was very informative. Thank you!
Love you info