Saving seeds from fruits and vegetables is usually a straightforward process: wait until the crop reaches maturity, harvest it, extract the seeds, let them dry, and store them for the next planting season. However, when it comes to tomatoes, things are a bit different. Tomatoes require an additional step for successful seed saving—fermentation.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to save tomato seeds, including the crucial fermentation step that ensures healthy, viable seeds for future planting.
Why Tomatoes Need Special Treatment
Tomato seeds come encased in a gel-like coating that contains germination inhibitors. This natural coating prevents seeds from sprouting inside the fruit. While this is useful in nature, it poses a problem when you want to save seeds for the next growing season. Fermentation is necessary to remove this coating and allow for proper seed storage and future germination.
Step-by-Step Guide to Saving Tomato Seeds
1. Choose the Best Tomatoes
Start by selecting fully ripe, disease-free tomatoes from healthy plants. Ideally, choose heirloom or open-pollinated varieties, as these seeds will produce plants true to the parent. Hybrid tomato seeds, on the other hand, may not retain the characteristics of the parent plant.
2. Extract the Seeds
Cut the tomato in half, preferably across its equator to expose the seed cavities. Using a spoon or your fingers, scoop out the seeds and the accompanying gel into a small jar or cup.
3. Start the Fermentation Process
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