How Do You Properly Store Heirloom Seeds?
Growing heirloom vegetables in the home garden ensures that nonhybrid, open-pollinated seeds are always available. Many heirloom varieties are passed down between family members or gardening groups in an effort to keep original vegetable varieties available. Heirloom vegetables produce viable seed that you may save from year to year, helping to ensure the continued existence of the variety. Storing your heirloom vegetable seeds properly keeps them viable for the next growing season and, in some cases, for even longer storage. Remove seeds from the vegetables after the fruit has fully matured on the vine or stalk. Rinse off any pulp on the seeds and pat dry. Line a baking sheet or other sturdy tray with paper towels. Spread the seeds on the paper towels in a single layer. Try to keep the seeds from touching each other, though this may not be possible with small seeds. Set the seeds in a cool, dry room and allow to dry for 2 weeks. Place the seeds in jars once they are dried. Fill a smal
