Saving Heirloom Tomato Seeds

I found a tutorial online on how to save heirloom tomato seeds.  My sister-in-law picked up some Amish Paste tomato starts for me in Pennsylvania earlier this year since I cannot seem to find the seeds or starts around here.  So, in order to plant these tomatoes in the garden again next year, I needed to save the seeds.  In order to prevent any seed-borne diseases, you have to let the seeds ferment for a few days, rinse them, and then let them dry.  It takes over a week to complete, but it's definitely worth the effort!

The first step is to let two or three tomatoes ripen on the vine (to almost overripe), scoop out the seeds and gel-type pulp into a jar or bowl, cover with cheesecloth, and let it sit for 3-5 days.  It said to stir it once a day, but I didn't do that.  It will start to develop a white mold type substance on the top.  This is when you know you need to move to the next step.

Next, add water to the mixture.  The bad seeds and pulp will float to the top and the good seeds will sink to the bottom.  I let this sit for a couple hours.

Next you rinse the seeds in a fine mesh strainer.

Blot the seeds dry with a towel and lay out on a paper towel in a sunny spot for a few days to dry completely.  Store the seeds in a labeled paper envelope in a cool, dry place.