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Learn how to grow and harvest your own garden vegetable seeds by taking this course today.

Basics of Saving Seeds from your Garden

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Learn how to grow and harvest your own garden vegetable seeds by taking this course today.

Basics of Saving Seeds from your Garden

This quick but comprehensive gardening course will have you ready to save your own vegetable seeds this growing season.

After taking this one hour course you will be ready to head out to your garden and start saving your own seeds to plant next year.

Topics covered in the course include:

  • The difference between hybrid and heirloom (open pollinated) seeds

  • Why you can't save seeds from hybrid plants

  • What is cross pollination and how does it affect seed saving

  • What the easiest vegetables to save seeds from

  • What plants are harder to save seeds from and how you can still save those seeds

  • Some vegetables are very hard to save seeds from, which ones are they and how can you make it work despite the difficulty

  • How to harvest and care for you fresh seeds

  • How to store your seeds for the longest life

Included in the course are demo videos showing how to save seeds from 3 different vegetables (Lettuce, Kale, & Tomatoes)

Don't spend hours storing through all the information out there on the internet. Just take one hour with Rick and you will be ready to save your own garden seeds.

Enroll now

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches core gardening skill of saving seeds for the future
Is quick and comprehensive, taking just 1 hour of your time
Taught by entrepreneur and professional gardener Rick
Covers a full range of topics for beginners and intermediate gardeners
Includes video demonstrations that guide learners through saving and storing seeds

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Gardening: The Basics of Saving Seeds from your Garden with these activities:
Review plant biology basics
Refresh foundational knowledge by reviewing the basics of plant biology, such as plant structure, function, and genetics. This will provide a strong foundation for understanding the concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on Plant Biology
Show steps
  • Read through introductory chapters of a plant biology textbook or online resources.
  • Review notes or materials from previous plant biology courses or workshops.
  • Take practice quizzes or answer review questions to test understanding.
Review 'Seed to Seed' by Suzanne Ashworth
This book provides comprehensive information on saving seeds, and will supplement the topics covered in the course, helping solidify learning.
View Seed to Seed on Amazon
Show steps
  • Skim the table of contents and select relevant chapters.
  • Read the selected chapters thoroughly.
  • Take notes and highlight important information.
Compile a collection of seed catalogs and plant resources
Creating a compilation of seed catalogs and plant resources provides a valuable reference for seed selection and gardening practices, enhancing practical application of course concepts.
Browse courses on Gardening
Show steps
  • Gather seed catalogs from different sources.
  • Organize the catalogs and resources in a binder or digital format.
  • Use the compilation to research and select seeds for your garden.
11 other activities
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Follow video tutorials on seed saving techniques
Enhance practical skills by following guided video tutorials that demonstrate different seed saving techniques. This allows for visual learning and hands-on practice.
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on seed saving for specific vegetables.
  • Follow the instructions in the videos, practicing the techniques shown.
  • Record any questions or areas of uncertainty for further research or clarification.
Participate in a peer discussion forum on seed saving techniques
Expand perspectives and share experiences by participating in a peer discussion forum where students can ask questions, share tips, and discuss challenges related to seed saving.
Show steps
  • Join a relevant online forum or discussion group.
  • Post questions or share information on specific seed saving techniques.
  • Engage in discussions and respond to others' posts.
Plan and plant a garden for seed saving
Planning and planting a garden specifically for seed saving allows you to practically apply the knowledge gained in the course, ensuring better retention and understanding.
Browse courses on Garden Planning
Show steps
  • Research different vegetable varieties suitable for seed saving.
  • Design a garden layout that includes companion planting and isolation distances.
  • Prepare the soil and plant the seeds or seedlings.
Start a small-scale seed saving project in your garden
Gain practical experience and apply the concepts learned in the course by starting a small-scale seed saving project in your own garden. This allows for hands-on experimentation and a deeper understanding of the process.
Show steps
  • Select a few easy-to-save vegetables to start with.
  • Prepare your garden beds and sow the seeds.
  • Monitor the plants throughout the growing season, providing proper care and pollination.
  • Harvest and process the seeds according to the techniques learned in the course.
  • Store the saved seeds properly for future use.
Practice seed harvesting and storage techniques
Regular practice of seed harvesting and storage techniques strengthens muscle memory and improves coordination, enhancing practical application of course concepts.
Show steps
  • Harvest seeds from different vegetables at the appropriate time.
  • Process the seeds to remove any remaining plant material.
  • Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Create a presentation on pollination and its impact on seed saving
Deepen understanding of the role of pollination in seed saving by creating a presentation that explores the different types of pollination, their mechanisms, and their impact on seed quality and quantity.
Browse courses on Pollination
Show steps
  • Research different types of pollination and their mechanisms.
  • Gather data on the impact of pollination on seed saving, such as cross-pollination rates and seed viability.
  • Design and create a presentation that effectively conveys the information.
  • Present the findings to peers or a small audience for feedback.
Create a blog post or article on the importance of seed saving
Enhance understanding and promote awareness by creating a blog post or article that explores the importance of seed saving for food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable gardening practices.
Show steps
  • Research the benefits and challenges of seed saving.
  • Gather data and examples to support the arguments.
  • Write a well-structured and engaging article.
  • Share the article on relevant platforms or websites.
Watch video tutorials on seed saving and propagation
Watching video tutorials provides visual demonstrations of seed saving techniques, enhancing comprehension and retention of course material.
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on seed saving and propagation.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes.
  • Practice the techniques shown in the tutorials.
Create a blog post or video tutorial on seed saving
Creating a blog post or video tutorial requires synthesizing and presenting information, which reinforces learning and deepens understanding.
Show steps
  • Outline the main points to cover.
  • Gather information and examples to support the points.
  • Write or record the content.
  • Review and edit the content.
Attend local gardening events and meet-ups
Attending local gardening events allows interaction with experienced gardeners, exchanging knowledge, and learning from practical experiences.
Browse courses on Gardening
Show steps
  • Research local gardening events and meet-ups.
  • Attend the events and introduce yourself to other gardeners.
  • Participate in discussions and share your knowledge.
Participate in seed saving workshops
Hands-on workshops provide immersive learning experiences, allowing participants to apply techniques and receive direct feedback, improving practical skills.
Show steps
  • Search for and register for seed saving workshops.
  • Attend the workshops and actively participate in the activities.
  • Ask questions and take notes during the workshops.

Career center

Learners who complete Gardening: The Basics of Saving Seeds from your Garden will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Seed Production Manager
A Seed Production Manager oversees the production, processing, and distribution of seeds for agricultural purposes. This role requires a deep understanding of seed quality, genetics, and seed production techniques. The course provides fundamental knowledge on seed saving, cross-pollination, and seed storage, which are critical aspects of seed production management. By completing this course, Seed Production Managers can gain insights into best practices for seed production and contribute to the development of high-quality seeds for the agricultural industry.
Seed Librarian
Seed Librarians manage and preserve seed collections, ensuring the availability of diverse and locally adapted plant varieties. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in seed conservation and sustainable agriculture. This knowledge is essential for Seed Librarians to acquire, store, and distribute seeds effectively. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Seed Librarians can contribute to the preservation of plant genetic resources and promote biodiversity in agriculture.
Plant Breeder
Plant Breeders develop new plant varieties with improved traits and characteristics. The course on seed saving offers valuable insights into plant genetics and reproduction. This knowledge is essential for Plant Breeders to understand the inheritance patterns and genetic diversity within plant populations. By mastering the principles of seed saving, Plant Breeders can make informed decisions in selecting and crossing parent plants, leading to the development of superior crop varieties.
Farm Manager
A Farm Manager is responsible for coordinating and directing the farming operations of an agricultural establishment. This role involves overseeing all aspects of farm operations, including planning, planting, harvesting, and marketing. The topics covered in this course, particularly those on seed saving and cross-pollination, would provide valuable knowledge for a Farm Manager. Understanding these concepts can help in planning crop rotation and maintaining genetic diversity within the farm's plant populations, leading to improved crop yields and overall farm productivity.
Organic Farmer
Organic Farmers use natural methods to grow and produce food without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. The course on seed saving provides insights into sustainable agriculture practices and the importance of preserving biodiversity. This knowledge is essential for Organic Farmers to maintain healthy soil, manage pests and diseases naturally, and produce high-quality organic products. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Organic Farmers can become more self-sufficient and contribute to the development of sustainable food systems.
Community Garden Coordinator
Community Garden Coordinators manage and facilitate community gardens, providing opportunities for local residents to grow their own food. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in sustainable agriculture and community engagement. This knowledge is essential for Community Garden Coordinators to establish and maintain community gardens, provide educational programs, and promote healthy eating habits. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Community Garden Coordinators can contribute to the development of sustainable food systems and foster a sense of community.
Horticulturist
Horticulturists specialize in the cultivation of plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. The course covers topics such as seed harvesting, seed care, and seed storage, which are essential for successful plant propagation and cultivation. By taking this course, Horticulturists can enhance their knowledge of seed management practices and improve the quality and yield of their plant production.
Food Security Specialist
Food Security Specialists work to address food insecurity and promote access to nutritious food for all. The course on seed saving provides insights into sustainable agriculture practices and the importance of seed sovereignty. This knowledge is essential for Food Security Specialists to develop and implement programs that support local food production and empower communities to become more food secure. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Food Security Specialists can contribute to the development of resilient food systems and reduce food insecurity.
Permaculture Designer
Permaculture Designers create sustainable landscapes and ecosystems that mimic natural patterns. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and seed production. This knowledge is essential for Permaculture Designers to implement resilient and productive food systems. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Permaculture Designers can contribute to the development of self-sustaining and ecologically balanced landscapes.
Urban Farmer
Urban Farmers grow and produce food in urban environments, often using innovative techniques and sustainable practices. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in urban agriculture and sustainable food production. This knowledge is essential for Urban Farmers to establish and maintain productive gardens in limited spaces, manage pests and diseases effectively, and contribute to local food security. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Urban Farmers can become more self-sufficient and promote the development of sustainable urban food systems.
Agricultural Scientist
An Agricultural Scientist conducts research and develops new technologies to improve agricultural practices and crop production. The course on seed saving provides insights into the principles of plant genetics and reproduction. This knowledge can be beneficial for Agricultural Scientists working on plant breeding, seed production, or developing sustainable farming methods. By understanding the processes involved in seed saving, Agricultural Scientists can contribute to the development of improved crop varieties and more efficient seed production systems.
Geneticist
Geneticists study the principles of heredity and variation in living organisms. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in plant genetics, including concepts such as cross-pollination and seed storage. This knowledge is relevant for Geneticists working in plant breeding, conservation genetics, or genetic research. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Geneticists can contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity and the development of improved crop varieties.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the interactions between humans and the environment. The course on seed saving provides insights into the importance of biodiversity and sustainable agricultural practices. This knowledge is valuable for Environmental Scientists working on conservation projects, environmental impact assessments, or sustainable development initiatives. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Environmental Scientists can contribute to the preservation of plant genetic resources and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants advise organizations on implementing sustainable practices and reducing their environmental impact. The course on seed saving provides a foundation in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. This knowledge is relevant for Sustainability Consultants working with agricultural businesses, environmental organizations, or government agencies. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Sustainability Consultants can help organizations adopt sustainable farming practices and reduce their reliance on chemical inputs.
Conservation Biologist
Conservation Biologists work to protect and restore endangered species and ecosystems. The course on seed saving provides insights into the importance of genetic diversity and sustainable agriculture practices. This knowledge is valuable for Conservation Biologists working on habitat restoration, species conservation, or biodiversity management. By understanding the principles of seed saving, Conservation Biologists can contribute to the preservation of plant genetic resources and promote sustainable land use practices.

Reading list

We've selected five books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Gardening: The Basics of Saving Seeds from your Garden.
Provides detailed instructions on how to save seeds from a wide variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, lettuce, kale, and beans. It also covers the basics of plant genetics and pollination, which is helpful for understanding why some plants are easier to save seeds from than others.
Thorough and well-rounded reference guide appropriate for both novice and experienced gardeners. Provides detailed information on seed saving from over 250 species of vegetables, flowers, and herbs.
This comprehensive manual is geared towards organic seed growers and provides advanced techniques for seed saving and crop improvement.
While this book does not focus specifically on seed saving, it provides valuable information on companion planting, which can greatly benefit seed savers by preventing cross-pollination and improving plant health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of seed technology. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the science and technology of seed saving.

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