Saving Tomato Seeds

During tomato season this past summer (notice I say "past" summer since we are officially into fall now), I noticed one particular tomato plant that was producing stripped tomatoes.  I don't know if this is some sort of genetic mutation or just an odd seed of a different variety that got mixed in with the variety we bought. 

They look somewhat spotted here, but the spots are arranged in definite stripes.  The tomatoes were not that big, maybe the size of a large plum or a little larger.  But, they were tasty and just sort of neat.  So, I decided to save the seeds from one and plant them next year to see what I get.

The first step was to quarter the tomato and remove the seeds.

The seeds are encased in a jelly-like goo that is very difficult to remove.  So, the solution is to put the seeds along with the goo into a small bowl, add a small amount of water and let it set for several days.

During this time, this material will ferment and decompose and you will be able to remove the seeds easily.  Be sure to add a little more water if needed to keep it moist.  After 4-5 days, pour the material into a strainer and run water over through it.  Everything should rinse away except the seeds.

Put the seeds on a piece of newspaper to dry.  Spread them out as best you can.  The seeds will stick to the paper, but after a day or so, you should be able to scrape the seeds off.  Make sure they are completely dry.  

Once they are dry, then you can put them in an envelope for storage.  Be sure to write on the envelop what they are!  I store my seeds from year to year in the vegetable compartment of my refrigerator.