A Beginner’s Guide to Producing and Saving Open-Pollinated Seeds for North Florida Farmers and Gardeners: ENH1383/EP647, 12/2024

Abstract

Seed saving is the art and practice of preserving and sharing seeds from desired open-pollinated plants. Saving seeds has many benefits and motivations that may include improving the adaptability of a crop to a region or microclimate, preserving cultural traditions and foods, growing for nutrient density and flavor preferences, saving on the cost of seed purchases, and connecting to local communities through seed sharing. For example, you may start saving seeds to preserve a beloved heirloom variety with flavors that remind you of home or to improve on a crop that performed particularly well. Saving your own seeds can save money, as one good growing season can produce many years' worth of seeds. This publication is for farmers and gardeners interested in producing, using, or donating seeds from open-pollinated plants. It recommends practices to produce, harvest, and store seeds from annual vegetable, fruit, and herb crops. This guidance is not intended for commercial purposes.