Seed saving is a time honored practice and one that anyone interested in sustainable agriculture should become familiar with. While seeds can be saved from nearly any vegetable plant, we often get asked how to save tomato seeds because it is a slightly more involved process than some others.

Depending on the particular variety of tomato, there may be anywhere from dozens to hundreds of seeds in a single mature fruit. You have probably noticed that the seeds are surrounded by a jelly-like substance that most recipes call for removing. With just a few simple steps and a little patience you can save tomato seed from your favorite heirloom tomato plants and grow them year after year.

It is important to note that we mention saving heirloom tomato seeds. The distinction is a big one, because the majority of hybrid tomatoes that you might find in the average supermarket will not always grow true from seed. That means that saving the seed from a regular store bought hybrid tomato does not guarantee that it will grow at all or that if it does it will produce fruit. Here is how to save tomato seeds in a few short steps:

1. Start with a fully ripe heirloom tomato. Slice the tomato in half and scoop the tomato seed and inner gel membrane into a clean jar or glass. Add about an inch of water and cover with a coffee filter or paper towel secured by a rubber band.

2. Place the jar in an out of the way area for 4-5 days. When you return you should see a rather ugly layer of mold atop the liquid in the jar. Don’t panic, this is not only normal, it is necessary to break down the gel that protects the seed and inhibits tomato seed germination.

3. Open the jar and remove the mold. Pour the seeds into a strainer and rinse with cool water several times until the membrane is completely removed. Don’t be afraid to use your fingers is necessary.

4. Spread the tomato seeds on a paper plate, paper towel or a sheet of newsprint and allow it to air dry completely for a few days before packaging them in clearly labeled envelopes.

Be sure to include the type of tomato and the date you saved the seed for future reference.

While it may seem complicated at first, once you have gone through the process once, you will never forget how to save tomato seed. The extra steps required will be long forgotten after you grow your own tomatoes from seed next year!