The traditional growing season is coming to a close.  If you have grown heirloom tomatoes, then seed saving is next on the ‘to-do’ list.  Here is a guest blog from one of our new writers here at PREPARE Magazine. We hope you enjoy these 8 Easy Steps to Fermenting Tomato Seed for Seed Saving.

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By Guest Blogger, Chris Smith

Some seeds need to be fermented in order to break down the gelatinous placental layer that surrounds the seed. Once this layer is broken down the seeds can be dried and stored in a cool, dark and dry location.

Step One – cut along the equator to reveal the seed categories

 

 

 

 

 

Step Two – squeeze or scrape seeds into a clean container

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step Three – top the container up with clean water and stir vigorously

 

 

 

 

Step Four – leave to ferment for 2-3 days. Stir daily

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step Five – seeds will sink to the bottom. Fermented gunk will form on top

 

 

Step Six – pour off the gunk, fill with water and pour off the gunk. Repeat until most of the gunk is gone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step Seven – do a final rinse to make sure seeds are clean.

 

 

 

Step Eight – allow seeds to dry thoroughly before storing. I use coffee filters

 

 

 

 

 

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Chris Smith is an enthusiastic grower and permaculture student from a green-thumbed family! On his ½ acre micro-farm, Chris is experimenting with landraces, selective seed saving, crop trials and seed grow outs. With a newborn in the family, the importance of resilient food systems is high in his mind. Chris works at Sow True Seed in Asheville, NC as the Community Coordinator and is active in promoting good quality, regionally adapted open-pollinated seed.

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Popular Questions

What are the easy steps to ferment tomato seeds for saving?

To ferment tomato seeds for saving, start by cutting the tomato along the equator and squeezing the seeds into a clean container. Add clean water and stir vigorously, then let the mixture ferment for 2-3 days, stirring daily. After fermentation, the seeds will sink, and you can pour off the gunk that forms on top. Rinse the seeds thoroughly before allowing them to dry completely.

How long should you ferment tomato seeds for saving?

Fermenting tomato seeds typically takes about 2-3 days. During this time, it's important to stir the mixture daily to ensure even fermentation. After the fermentation period, the seeds will settle at the bottom, and you can remove the floating debris. This process helps break down the gelatinous layer surrounding the seeds, making them easier to clean.

What should you do after fermenting tomato seeds for saving?

Once the fermentation process is complete, pour off the gunk and rinse the seeds with clean water to remove any remaining debris. Repeat this rinsing process until most of the gunk is gone and the seeds are clean. After rinsing, allow the seeds to dry thoroughly, which is crucial for proper storage. Using coffee filters can help absorb moisture effectively during the drying process.

Why is it important to ferment tomato seeds before saving them?

Fermenting tomato seeds is essential because it helps break down the gelatinous layer that surrounds the seeds, which can inhibit germination if left intact. This process also helps eliminate any potential pathogens that may be present on the seeds. By fermenting, you ensure that the seeds are clean and ready for storage, increasing their viability for future planting. Properly fermented seeds can lead to healthier plants in the next growing season.