Next year, I would like to keep my out of pocket gardening expenses as low as possible. My goal is to spend about half the amount I did this year {about $550}, on garden supplies like seeds, soil and tools.

One of the ways I am plan to achieve my goal, is to save as many seeds as possible this year. Saving your own seeds can be a HUGE money saver. And the way I see it, if the Pilgrims could do it, so can I. For me, gardening is not so much about the end result, as much as it is the learning process, the trial and error period you go through along the way.

Gardening can be loads of fun, especially when you branch out and try new things every now and then again.

So if you have never tried saving seeds before, give it a try.

How to Save Pumpkin / Squash Seeds

• Scrap the insides of a pumpkin with a large spoon to remove pulp, place into a large bowl

• Remove as much pulp from the seeds as possible with your hands, and rinse seeds under running water to help remove any excess pulp
• Drain seeds, blot dry, and place on a paper towel to dry for 24 hours

• Transfer seeds to piece of wax paper {or parchment paper} and let them continue to dry out for a couple of weeks

• Place seeds in an airtight container {I actually use zip baggies}, label, and store in a cool, dry place until ready to plant the following year.

Do you save your pumpkin and squash seeds every year, or buy new ones?

If you are a seed saver, how long have you been saving your seeds, and how much do you think you have saved over the years by doing this?

~ Mavis

Want to learn more about saving seeds? Check out The Complete Guide to Saving Seeds: 322 Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, Flowers, Trees, and Shrubs By Robert E. Gough. There are chapters dedicated to individual plants contain species-specific directions and detailed information. Gardeners of any experience level will find all the information they need to extend the life of their favorite plants to the next generation and beyond.