Seed Saving

Arugula Flowers

Most organic farmers would tell you that the cost of seed is way down on their list expenses. Gasoline for machinery, electricity to heat greenhouses, compost, mulch, and labor are much greater expenses on an annual basis. So, many farmers don't bother to save seed. But, seed saving can be a fun activity for everyone.

At One Love Farm, the first corp to bolt (ie: go to seed) is arugula. We plant arugula early in the spring becuase arugula loves cool weather and bolts in the heat. This year, we had a good crop of arugula, but when the temperature reached 97 degrees on Tuesday I knew it wouldn't be long before little white flowers started to appear.

Those little white flowers then become green seed pods. After a couple of weeks, the seed pods turn brown and papery and eventually the seeds drop to the ground and become next year's crop. However, if you get the seed pods before they drop to the ground, you have a huge supply of seeds for next year.

Other plants are great for saving seeds, too. Tomatos, peppers and melons are great for savings seeds. Just remember to dry the seeds before storing them or they will mold or rot. Also, heirloom seeds should be saved. Hybrid seeds should not be saved. Hybrid seeds will not produce plants with edible fruits.

Many folks who save seeds, save them not only for themselves, but trade them with others. There are many seed saving networks all over the world, so if you are interested, start saving and trading your seeds today!


Seed Saver's Exchange