I bought an heirloom tomato at my local farmers market this past weekend, and I would like to save the seeds to replant them next spring. I am a complete novice in a garden, how do I go about this? Also, my tomato is now getting to the point of over ripeness, will that have an effect on my ability to save the seeds?

Thank you so much for your swift response. Erin S. Dion

Oh, I forgot to tell that my tomato is a Green Zebra tomato.

-- Anonymous, September 18, 2001

Answers

Hi Erin,

I am sorry that I did not get a reply to you sooner. I hope that you either found your answer elsewhere on our Web site here (http://www.victoryseeds.com/information/save_seeds.html#sectT) or the fruit is still holding up and you can use this reply.

Basically, if the fruit is from an open-pollinated heirloom variety and did not cross with something else, saving seeds is rather easy.

To save tomato seeds you will need to complete a few steps. You need to cut a ripe tomato in half, scoop out or squeeze the seeds and pulp, and place in a jar with a little water and cover with plastic wrap. Stir the seeds a few times a day for the next 2 or 3 days. During the fermentation process, the good seeds will separate from the gelatinous covering and sink to the bottom after which time you can pour off the liquid and junk. Rinse the seeds with cool, clean water. A fine mesh strainer or even coffee filters work. Dry seeds thoroughly before storing.

Best of success to you. Seed saving is an addictive hobby!

Mike

-- Anonymous, September 30, 2001

This brings back a memory. I had tomato seeds fermenting on my window sill and my husband thought it was just another example of my housekeeping capabilities and flew into a snit after dumping them down the drain and washing the bowl they were in. His tone changed when I told him what it was and he looked rather sheepish . At the time I was put out but its real funny now. To dry the tomato seeds, spread them on a paper towel with the variety name writen on it. When dry as dry can be fold it up and pop it into a baggy. No spilled seeds and you can pick them off next spring.

-- Anonymous, June 21, 2002