ALEXANDRIA — As October arrives and gardens wind down, seed saving offers a simple, satisfying way to carry your favorite plants into next season. Whether you’re collecting seeds from vegetables or flowers, it’s a do-it-yourself tradition that builds resilience, preserves beloved varieties, and keeps gardening accessible.
Sometimes they’re in short supply, or you’ve found a variety that thrives in your soil and want to keep it going. Once you learn the basics, you’ll always have a stash of your favorite blooms and produce.
Not all seeds are suitable for saving. Hybrid varieties often produce unpredictable offspring. To ensure consistency, choose open-pollinated or heirloom types — they’ll “grow true,” meaning the next generation will resemble the parent plant.
Wait until fruits are fully ripe and seeds are mature. Tomatoes are easy, but cucumbers should be left to yellow on the vine, and peppers should ripen to red or orange. Always collect seeds from healthy, vigorous plants.
For dry seeds like peas and beans, let pods turn brown and papery. Shell and dry the seeds on mesh screens or paper towels in a cool, dry spot for about a week. Good airflow helps prevent mold.
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