How to Save Seeds from Your Garden
Save seeds from open-pollinated varieties only. Let fruit fully mature, dry seeds completely, and store cool and dry. Heirloom seeds grow true.
Seed saving is easy for some plants, tricky for others. Start with beans and tomatoes.
Easy to Save
| Plant | Method |
|---|---|
| Bean | Let pods dry on plant |
| Pea | Same as beans |
| Tomato | Ferment seeds |
| Pepper | Dry seeds |
| Lettuce | Let bolt, collect |
| Sunflower | Dry flower head |
Hard to Save
- Hybrids (won’t grow true)
- Biennials (need 2 years)
- Cross-pollinators (need isolation)
Tomato Seed Saving
- Scoop seeds + gel into jar.
- Add water. Ferment 3-5 days.
- Rinse. Dry on paper plate.
- Store cool, dry.
Storage
- Container: Paper envelope or glass jar.
- Conditions: Cool (50-60°F), dark, dry.
- Label: Variety + year.
Common Questions
Can I save hybrid seeds? You can, but they won’t grow true.
How long do saved seeds last? Beans: 3-4 years. Tomatoes: 4-6.
Do I need to ferment tomato seeds? Yes. Removes gel that inhibits germination.
What about cross-pollination? Isolate varieties or plant only one.
How do I know if seeds are dry? They snap, not bend.
Can I save seeds from store-bought produce? Sometimes. Heirloom tomatoes, yes.