Obtaining seeds from tomatoes: the gelatinous mass does not have to go

Created: 06/08/2022, 15:00

By: Ines Alms

In order to get seeds from your own tomatoes, it is common to remove the gelatinous mass around the seeds.

However, this is not necessary.

Your new favorite tomato variety tasted so fantastic that you want to grow it (again) next year?

The processing of self-gathered seeds reads a bit complicated.

For example, if you are on holiday or if you are one of the more comfortable hobby gardeners, you can also obtain germinable seeds with a much simpler method.

Next year you can grow your own tomatoes from it.

Obtaining seeds from tomatoes: the gelatinous mass does not have to go

Tomato seeds can be obtained using a simple method when you are on the go or when you need something quick.

© imagebroker/Imago

Whether from the garden, on holiday or from the supermarket - there is a basic requirement for getting seeds from your own tomatoes: the tomato plant must be a seed-resistant variety, mostly old varieties, and not an F1 Hybrid bred for annual tomato harvest only.

Of course, the tomato fruit should also be fully ripe and healthy when you pick it.

Removing the gelatinous mass around the tomato seed usually results in the seeds germinating faster.

If you leave the mass on the seeds, it will take a little longer.

If you bring a few more days of patience with you later on when growing, you will definitely save yourself the trouble of preparing.

And this is how it's done quickly and easily:

• 1. Cut the tomato open and distribute the seeds well on kitchen paper, baking paper or newspaper.

• 2. Let the seeds dry in the house or apartment for about two weeks.

  If they are still too wet, there is a risk that they will become moldy.

• 3. Fold the paper up and store tightly sealed in a dark, dry place until next year (or up to five years).

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If you have several tomato varieties or do not want to lose track of germination, you should label the seeds with the variety and date.

If in doubt, you can always do a germ test.

If you don't make any mistakes during the following spring cultivation, nothing stands in the way of a successful harvest.