Saving Everglade Tomato Seeds
Saving Everglade tomato seed is not so different than saving seed from other varieties. The difference? Everglade tomatoes are tiny, and they are thin skinned. They are so thin skinned that they would probably burst open and start crying if you told them they were a little disappointing that season. So while we can scoop out the seed of a beefsteak, there’s not enough room for a spoon in an Everglade tomato.
Clip Clusters
Whether gathering Everglades for a salad or collecting seed, I always clip the clusters from the plant. It’s just neater that way. Keeps the fragile tomatoes from bursting when pulled.
Select the Ripest Tomatoes
Squeeze out the Seeds
Place the Seed into a Clean Container for About Four Days
There will be a lot of pulp too. Don’t worry about that. I cover the container with a paper towel; secure with a rubber band. Keep the container out of direct sunlight in a dry location. Mine goes on the top shelf of a bookcase.
Gently Stir or Shake the Container Each Day.
The seeds and liquid will begin to smell strong as fermentation occurs. That’s normal. A little white scum may form at the top of the liquid. That’s okay. This process helps to remove undesirable residue from the seed coat. This will help to prolong the viability of the seeds.
Strain and Thoroughly Wash until Water Runs Clear
After scooping out any scum and plant residue, pour seed into a strainer and wash thoroughly.
Gently Pat with a Paper Towel
I place the seed between layers of paper towels and pat away some of the moisture. Just don’t leave them that way. If left on paper towels, the seed will stick as they dry.
Place Seeds on a Clean Dish to Finish Drying
The seed should be completely dry before storing. Lay the seed in a single layer on a dish, and leave in a dry location. Let the seeds dry for a couple of weeks.
