How do I save seeds from the tomatoes I grew?

Saving seeds from the tomatoes you grew is a great way to ensure that you can grow the same variety of tomatoes again in the future, and it's also a fun and easy activity to do. Here are the steps to follow:

Choose a ripe and healthy tomato: The tomato should be fully ripe, meaning it should be at its maximum size and have reached its final color. The tomato should also be healthy and free from any disease or insect damage.

Cut the tomato in half: Cut the tomato in half across the middle, not lengthwise, to reveal the seeds and gel inside.

Squeeze out the seeds and gel: Squeeze the tomato halves over a bowl to release the seeds and gel. You can also use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and gel.

Ferment the seeds: Transfer the seeds and gel to a jar or container and add some water. The mixture should be about 1 part seeds and gel to 2 parts water. Stir the mixture and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 2-3 days. During this time, the mixture will ferment, which will break down the gel surrounding the seeds and also kill any seed-borne diseases.

Rinse and dry the seeds: After 2-3 days, you will notice a layer of mold on top of the mixture. This is a sign that the fermentation process is complete. Carefully pour off the mold and any floating seeds and debris. Rinse the seeds in a fine-mesh sieve or strainer under running water until they are clean. Spread the seeds out on a paper towel or plate and let them dry completely. This may take several days, depending on the humidity in your area.

Store the seeds: Once the seeds are completely dry, store them in a paper envelope or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Be sure to label the container with the date and the variety of tomato, so you know what you're planting in the future.

That's it! You now have tomato seeds that you can save and plant in the future.