As late summer turns to fall, our garden work shifts from everyday harvesting to preparing for the future. Gathering seeds from the final yields of tomatoes and peppers has become an essential annual ritual for our food and community garden program … a simple, rewarding bridge between this year’s crop and the next.

The process is delightfully straightforward. Seeds are scooped from mature tomatoes and sweet or spicy peppers, separated from pulp, and spread across absorbent paper to dry out completely. Once dried, these tiny powerhouses are packaged and stored in cool, dark spots, preserving the genetic lines of the varieties that performed best during the season.

Beyond ensuring a reliable start for next spring’s seedlings, saving seeds expands community connections. Extra seeds are kept on hand for neighbors wanting to try their hand at gardening, while seed swaps offer a chance to trade local favorites and try new heirloom varieties without spending a dime.