How do you clean seeds from fruit?

To clean seeds from fruit, the primary method involves removing the surrounding pulp and then drying the seeds. Here's a breakdown of the process:

Basic Seed Cleaning Method

1. Scoop out the seeds and pulp: Carefully extract the seeds along with the surrounding fleshy material from the fruit.

2. Soak in water: Place the seed-pulp mixture in a container filled with water. This helps to loosen the pulp from the seeds.

3. Separate the seeds: Gently agitate the mixture with your hands or a utensil to further separate the seeds from the pulp. Viable seeds will often sink to the bottom. You can pour off the lighter pulp and any non-viable seeds that float. Repeat this process until the water is relatively clear.

4. Rinse the seeds: Thoroughly rinse the remaining seeds under clean water to remove any residual pulp.

5. Dry the seeds: Spread the cleaned seeds in a single layer on a paper towel or screen in a well-ventilated area. Allow them to dry completely. This is crucial to prevent mold growth. Drying time will vary depending on the seed type and humidity.

Fermentation Method (Especially for Tomatoes)

For certain fruits, such as tomatoes, fermentation is a beneficial step for cleaning seeds. This helps to remove the gel-like coating that surrounds the seeds and can inhibit germination.

1. Scoop out the seeds and pulp: As with the basic method, extract the seeds and surrounding pulp.

2. Place in a container: Put the mixture into a jar or container. Add a small amount of water, if needed, to keep the mixture moist.

3. Allow to ferment: Leave the container at room temperature for a few days (typically 3-4 days). You should see a layer of mold form on top and notice a slightly sour odor. This is a sign of fermentation.

4. Add water and separate the seeds: Add more water to the container and stir vigorously. The viable seeds will sink to the bottom.

5. Rinse and dry: Pour off the mold and pulp. Rinse the seeds thoroughly and dry them as described in the basic method.

Tips for Success

• Label everything: Always label the seeds with the fruit type and date to avoid confusion.
• Use clean equipment: Clean containers and tools help to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Proper drying is key: Make sure the seeds are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold.
• Store seeds properly: Store dried seeds in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain their viability.