Saving your tomato seeds

Remember, a hybrid tomato that has been cross pollinated will not grow into what you planted, unless you are sure not to allow that cross pollination. Heritage tomatoes are the best ones to save seeds from. Here's how:

1. Wash tomatoes and then cut across them. Do not cut from stem tip to bottom, cut across the other way. Gently squeeze juice and seeds into a container, label it with the variety and date. Fill the container half way with water. Tap water is fine, but you can use distilled or spring if you wish.

2. This needs to sit for approximately 3 to 5 days. During this time, a whitish mold will form on the top of the water. This is good! Your fermentation is taking place. Be sure to set your container out of the direct sun and someplace where the fermentation odor will not bother you. Once the 3 to 5 days have passed, use a spoon to carefully remove the mold, taking care not to remove the seeds with it.

3. Add a little more water to the container, then stir with a spoon. The seeds you will want to save will sink to the bottom, any others you will discard.

4. Drain off the water, taking care not to pour out your good seeds. Place your seeds in a single layer on a plate for drying. This will take about three days. Once dry, place in a jar or envelope.

That's it. Your seeds are ready for use next spring!