How to Save Tomato Seeds

Seed Saving Tomato Seeds is not hard, but it does have a process. This process requires fermentation of the tomato seed and pulp. 

1. 1. Choosing the correct fruit is important. You want to select a fruit that has ripened on the vine and without disease. You also want to use heirloom tomatoes for the best results. You can use hybrids, but they may not grow true to seed. It can be a fun experiment in your garden. 

2. 2. Wash your tomato and cut it open to scoop out seeds and pulp into a clean jar. Cover with water (I use filtered water).  

3. 3. Place a coffee filter or cheesecloth over the jar and allow it to sit at room temperature for about a week to ferment.  

4. 4. Scoop off any floating seeds as they are not viable seeds to save. Strain the viable seeds at the bottom and rinse well. 

5. 5. Place rinsed seeds onto newspaper, paper towel, or paper plate to dry.  

6. 6. Once completely dried, label a small envelope with the name, variety, and date of seeds for next year’s planting. 

Note: If you are saving several different varieties, make sure to label through each step of the process so that you do not mix up your seeds. Happy Seed Saving!