Seed Saving
/SEED SAY-ving/✂️ Propagation● Basic
Also known as: seed collecting, seed harvesting
The practice of harvesting, cleaning, drying, and storing seeds from selected plants to grow in subsequent seasons. Seed saving preserves genetic diversity, saves money, and can select for traits adapted to local conditions. Open-pollinated and heirloom varieties come true from seed, while F1 hybrids will not reliably reproduce the parent's traits. Proper drying and cool, dry storage are essential for seed viability.
Etymology
Old English sǣd (seed) + Old English safian (to save)
Example
“Allow tomato fruits to fully ripen on the vine before harvesting seeds for saving — ferment the gel coating off before drying.”