How to Ferment Tomato Seeds for Saving and Replanting

Tomato seeds are coated in a gel that inhibits germination. Fermentation removes it. Scoop seeds into a jar, add water, and wait 3–4 days until mold forms. Then fill the jar, shake, and let settle. Viable seeds sink; debris floats. Pour off the top, rinse seeds, and dry them on a Styrofoam plate (they stick to paper). Store cool and dry until planting.

This simple process mimics natural fermentation and yields high germination rates. Label varieties carefully.