-
Step 1
First, obtain a suitable container in which to hold the seeds once this process is completed (that is when you have dry seeds). An envelope works very well for this because you can write on the front what type of tomato seeds are contained therein.
-
Step 2
Next, you can begin to harvest seeds from your tomatoes as they begin to change color and ripen. Make sure they are at room temperature when you continue with the following process. Cut the tomato in half (horizontally) in order to access the seeds in the chambers of the fruit. Gently squeeze the seeds out into a glass or plastic container. Try to avoid getting too much of the pulp or gelatinous coating. If you have a drier variety of tomato you can use a spoon to help extract the seeds. Do not add water or try to “wash” the seeds unless the tomato is very dry.
-
Step 3
Now, let the seed extract sit in the uncovered container for three to four days at room temperature. It helps to stir the contents two or three times per day. If you notice that the seeds begin to germinate, then you will need to proceed to the next step right away. Otherwise, continue the process and see if the gelatinous coating begins to dissipate.
-
Step 4
After three or four days, pour the extract into a fine mesh strainer which will keep the seeds from falling out the bottom. Wash them with water until only large pieces of skin or pulp remain.
-
Step 5
Now, pour the seeds into a glass or cup. Fill it with water. The seeds should remain on the bottom, while the skin and pulp rises to the top. Remove the skin and pulp by pouring it off of the top of the cup or glass. This might require several repetitions to obtain the desired results.
-
Step 6
Finally, spread out the seeds on a dry tray or plate. Be sure to use porcelain or plastic, since the seeds will not stick easily to these surfaces. In about two days at room temperature, your seeds should be dry enough to place into your envelope.
Comments
christyhow said
on 1/13/2009 great explanations!