How to Get Tomato Seeds From the Fruit

Tomato seeds can be grown into tomato plants.

Unlike an apple or a cucumber, which both are firm and have seeds that are confined in one easy-to-slice-out area, tomato seeds can get a little tricky. If you are just removing the seeds for a recipe that just calls for the flesh of the tomato, or you just don't like to eat the seeds, the correct cutting strategy can save you from making a mess. If you are planning on using the seeds for planting, which can save you from having to buy extra seeds, you will need to be able to remove and dry the seeds without damaging their planting integrity.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp knife
• Spoon
• Container
• Cellophane
• Sieve
• Wax paper

Instructions

1. Use a sharp knife to cut the tomato horizontally. If you cut a tomato from the top down, the seeds will be more likely to squirt out.

2. Place a spoon at the edge of the inside of the top of the tomato half, and gently scoop out all of the seeds. If you plan to dice the flesh of the tomato, you may also want to scoop out the compartment walls that held the seed.

3. Place the mass of seeds into a clean container large enough to fit the seeds if you plan to dry them and later plant them. Pour a few tablespoons of water on the seeds and cover the container with cellophane. Poke three small holes in the cellophane to let in a little air. Place the container by a window that gets sun.

4. Stir the tomato seeds once a day for three days, returning the cellophane and placing the container back by the window when you are finished.

5. Remove the thick substance that has formed on the seeds, using a spoon, after three days. Rinse the mass of seeds in a sieve until the substance holding the seeds together washes away.

6. Lay the seeds out on wax paper. Keep the wax paper in a dry area for a week, which is when the seeds will be ready for planting.

References

• Tomato.org: Tomato Seeds