Seeds ready for saving inside a yellow pepper.

Saving seed can be as easy as drying out seeds and replanting them next year. Or it can be as difficult as isolating varieties, identifying male and female plant parts, and hand-pollinating them. Saving seeds is a rewarding process, however, because you can save money and preserve seeds that are uniquely adapted to your area and/or in danger of becoming extinct. Here are some general guidelines when starting to save your own seeds.

Refresh your plant biology knowledge.

Honestly, this part can be confusing, but it helps to know the basics about pollination. Some plants need isolation from other varieties in order to produce seed that is true-to-type. You may have to investigate what your neighbors are planting to ensure that their crops won’t interfere with your plans.

Start with easy plants.

According to the International Seed Saving Institute (www.seedsave.org), saving seeds from beans, lettuce, peas, peppers, and tomatoes is easy enough for beginners. Detailed instructions for these types of plants can be found at their site.

Purchase and plant non-hybrid seeds.

Replanting hybrid seeds will produce plants that are sterile or are not true-to-type. Instead, try heirloom varieties or purchase from a reputable seed company. You can also trade seeds with local gardeners.

Grow more plants than typical.

You need lots of healthy plants to provide seeds for the next year. Make sure that you grow enough to eat for the current season too.

Go rogue.

Roguing refers to picking out unhealthy plants and leaving only the best-looking ones. You may need to keep constant vigilance over your plants so that unsightly ones don’t go to seed.

Wait until plants are mature.

This may mean warding off hungry birds and animals from your crops. You may enjoy eating tender plants, but try to save seeds from ones that have been on the stalk longer.

Follow specific harvesting directions.

Some seeds, like beans, are harvested dry, while some, like squash, have to be washed first and then dried out on screens or some other non-stick surface. Seed to Seed by Suzanne Ashworth contains detailed instructions for many types of seeds.

Provide cool, dry storage.

Since you’re trying to imitate winter conditions, don’t let seeds get too hot or humid. Temperatures above 90° F can damage the seeds; don’t try to dry them in the oven! You also don’t want to store them in humid places. For storage containers, try cardboard boxes, paper bags or plastic containers. Label them well.