The practice of seed saving is as old as gardening itself, thanks to gardeners treasuring these seeds from their favorite plants.
One might ask: Why is it important to be a seed saver?
It’s simple: Wouldn’t you want to grow your favorite plant again?
And with the possibility of seed companies discontinuing your favorite seed for newer varieties, seed saving seems to be the obvious choice.
And which brings us to the type of seeds that need to be saved. Pick open-pollinated or self-pollinated seeds only. Alternatively, avoid hybridized seeds as they will grow into plants that are have the characteristics of both parent plants.
Also, plants that have been pollinated by the wind or insects might not be the exact breed you are looking for but if you wish to do so, then one can save seeds with a little extra care.
For this, you will have to plant either varieties of the same species together or different at a distance from each other. In some cases, planting species that flower at different times might work while another method might include using a physical barrier such as cover rows and bags.
As for the act of saving seeds, it’s important to pick the best quality flowers, fruits, vegetables and plants by taking into consideration factors such as disease resistance, flavors, vigor and productivity. Remember to this when the seed pods are either fully dried or when the vegetable is fully ripe.
Also, make sure you save the seeds in a cool, dark place and that are dry as possible while only using them in the following year.