How to Get Seeds from an English Cucumber

To extract seeds from an English cucumber, the process involves initial preparation of the cucumber, followed by careful collection and subsequent processing of the seeds for storage or planting.

Step-by-Step Seed Extraction Process

Getting viable seeds from an English cucumber requires a few straightforward steps, ensuring the cucumber is mature enough for seed saving.

1. Preparation of the Cucumber

Based on the instructions from the Martha Stewart video on how to seed a cucumber, the initial steps focus on preparing the cucumber for easy seed access:

• Peel the Cucumber: First, remove the peel of the cucumber. In long thin strips... This step is crucial as the peel can harbor dirt and isn't needed for seed extraction.
• Trim the Ends: ...cut off each end... Removing the ends provides a clean start and helps in slicing.
• Slice the Cucumber: ...and slice the cucumber. For seed collection, it's best to slice the cucumber lengthwise down the middle. This exposes the seed cavity running through the center of the cucumber, making it easy to access the seeds.

2. Seed Collection

Once the cucumber is sliced lengthwise, the seeds are readily accessible:

• Scoop Out the Seeds: Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the jelly-like substance containing the seeds from the center of each cucumber half. Place this mixture into a clean glass jar or bowl.
• Separate Seeds from Flesh (Optional Initial Rinse): While not strictly necessary at this stage if you plan to ferment, you can gently scrape off any large pieces of cucumber flesh from the seed mixture.

3. Processing Seeds for Storage or Planting

For successful seed saving, especially if you intend to plant them, further processing is essential to remove inhibiting substances and ensure longevity:

• Fermentation (Recommended for Planting):
  • Add a small amount of water (just enough to cover the seeds) to the jar containing the scooped-out seeds and pulp.
  • Cover the jar loosely with a cloth or paper towel to allow air circulation and prevent fruit flies.
  • Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 2-3 days, or until a white mold forms on the surface. This fermentation process breaks down the jelly-like substance surrounding the seeds, which contains germination inhibitors, and separates viable seeds from non-viable ones. Viable seeds will typically sink to the bottom.
• Cleaning the Seeds:
  • Once fermented, carefully pour off the moldy top layer and any floating debris.
  • Add fresh water to the jar, stir vigorously, and allow the seeds to settle. Pour off the cloudy water. Repeat this rinsing process several times until the water runs clear and the seeds are clean.
• Drying the Seeds:
  • Spread the clean seeds in a single layer on a non-stick surface, such as a ceramic plate, parchment paper, or a fine mesh screen. Avoid paper towels as seeds can stick to them.
  • Place the seeds in a warm, dry area with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight.
  • Stir the seeds daily to ensure even drying.
  • Allow the seeds to dry completely for 1-2 weeks. They should be brittle and snap when bent, not bend or feel pliable.
• Storage:
  • Once thoroughly dry, store the seeds in an airtight container (e.g., small paper envelopes, glass jars) in a cool, dark, and dry place. Label them with the cucumber variety and the date of collection.

Tips for Successful Cucumber Seed Saving

For optimal seed viability and plant health, consider these practical insights:

• Cucumber Maturity: For seed saving, allow cucumbers to fully mature on the vine until they turn yellow or orange, becoming larger and firmer than those harvested for eating. This ensures the seeds inside are fully developed.
• Open-Pollinated Varieties: Always save seeds from open-pollinated or heirloom varieties. Seeds from hybrid cucumbers (F1) may not grow true to type, producing plants with unpredictable characteristics.
• Seed Viability: Properly dried and stored cucumber seeds can remain viable for 5-10 years.

Summary of Seed Extraction Steps