Heirloom Tomatoes




Tomato Seeds

 
Normally I just got to a local store and buy whatever tomato plants they have in stock for the year.  However, this year my parents gave me several types of heirloom tomatoes for my garden.  So, I have decided to try and save some of the seed.  Heirlooms are the only ones you can save the seeds from and use later on.  So far I have kept the seeds from three different types: Green Zebra Striped, Yellow Jubilee, and Purple-Black Carbon.

Here is what you need to do to save your heirloom tomatoes (just imagine how much you will save next year instead of buying new seeds/plants!!):



Green Zebra Striped Tomatoes



*Choose a ripe tomato from a healthy plant.

*Cut the tomato open and scoop out the seeds and pulp into a glass/jar.

*Put as much water as pulp in the container.

*Place a lid on the jar (or use wrap on a glass); make sure it is loose as some air needs to get to the seeds/water mixture.

*Keep at room temperature our of direct sunlight for 3-7 days.

*A layer of mold will form on the surface: this is GOOD, the mold forms a bacteria-killing anaerobic environment that boosts germination.

*After the 3-7 scoop the mold off and strain the water/pulp mixture.
*Rinse the seeds and spread them on a paper plate, allow the seeds to dry this way for 2 weeks at room temperature.
*When dry, pack seeds in paper packets or envelops.  Store in a refrigerator if possible, if not, store at room temperature.

Make sure you label your seeds as you go so you know what they are for the next year.

I am very excited to be trying this.  Tomatoes are a staple in my house and there is nothing better then going out and picking a fresh one.  There are so many types of heirlooms and I plan to try and grow the types that I have in my garden.  Plus, I know that if I can save the seeds then I will see saving every year when I put out the garden.

Keep in mind that some of the heirloom tomatoes do not have the pretty, perfectly rounded shape like the genetically modified ones you get in the grocery store.  But, the taste is unbeatable. 

Happy gardening!

-Sarah D.