Some seed and seedling questions.

[Saffron]

When you cut open a pepper, can you use the seeds inside to start new pepper plants? I'm so embarrassed to ask that! LOL! I was just wondering if processing for the stores does anything to the seeds inside the peppers or if the seeds can be used. If they can be used, how do you go about doing it? I know I'll have to wait until next year. I can't believe I thought of this today.

 

[mommytotwo]

You should rinse off the pepper seeds and put them out to dry before planting them. You could try to plant some of them this season and see how it goes, then you will be ready for next year.
Don't be embarrassed to ask any question, I'm sure that other people learn from new questions such as these or even different techniques.

 

[Snowwark]

Hi Maggie! Are you fully clothed, or streaking through the F&G board?

I've never grown peppers from seed, Maggie, but I'm not sure that the ones you buy from the grocery store would work. I don't think the seeds would be mature enough.

From what I've read, you need to allow the peppers to ripen beyond the eating stage. When they've turned from green to red (or yellow, orange) and begin to shrivel.

Patsy is right, the seeds need a couple of weeks to dry out, and then should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place.

Perhaps if you buy seedlings to grow next year, you can harvest those seeds. Just a thought....

Any other suggestions for Maggie, Buds?

 

[Mamu]

Also if they are a hybrid or genetically altered pepper not sure what kind of plants you'll get. They will grow but may not produce good or abundant fruit.

 

[Saffron]

LOL! When I was at the store yesterday I picked out the most perfect orange and yellow pepper, just in case!

Thank you everyone. I guess I'll experiment next year! I'll just buy a couple of yellow and a couple of orange pepper plants/seedlings, let a couple of the fruits ripen on the vine beyond what I would want to eat, then use those seeds. I think I got that now.

It's a shame I can't use that overly rip one at the bottom of the vegie bin in the refrigerator, huh?

Mamu -- wouldn't that be weird! I think I'll try a genetically altered one just to see what happens! I'll keep you posted!

Thank you again, everyone!

PS ... fully clothed Kim!