It’s early August (2021) here in Southeast Texas, and the cucumbers that were planted in the spring are done producing, so it is time to replant for the fall.
I am blessed, that I have the ability to plant all year long here in Texas, it just takes a bit of planning.
Cucumbers seeds are a bit more of an advanced collecting technique, but don’t let that intimidate you.
You CAN do this! After all, there is no such thing a failure, only lessons to be learned.
Here are a few tips to help you be successful when collecting your cucumber seeds:
Make sure your cucumber is over ripe. It will be larger than ones you want to eat and pale yellow.
The seeds you collect should not be from hybrids. Hybrids are created by cross breeding specific parent plants selected for an outstanding characteristic, but seeds saved from these plants will not reproduce a true copy of the parent plant, and in fact, are often sterile.
Cut in half and scoop out the pulp. Place in a container with water to cover the seeds. Allow this to ferment for 3 days, stirring daily. This fermentation process kills viruses and separates the good seeds from the pulp and the bad seeds. The good seeds will sink to the bottom while the bad seeds and pulp float at the surface.
Pour off the pulp, water, mold, and bad seeds carefully after your three days have passed. Remove the good seed and spread them on a coffee filter to dry. You can use paper towels, but the seeds tend to stick.
Once completely dry, your seeds can be stored in envelopes or a glass jar with a clear label specifying the date and variety (don’t be like me, keep track of the varieties you are using so that you know which grow the best).
Store in a cool, dry place and use within 3 years.
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