tomato seed

[Bill]

We grow BURPEE NAPA GRAPE tomatoes, plants are not available at garden centers. Has anyone that grows these had any luck saving the seed.
Bill

[Jim Becker]

I never grew that variety. However, Burpee lists it as a hybrid, which often will morph into something else if you use the seeds.

[Bill]

Jim,
Thanks for the reply, I have heard this of other Hybrids. These are the best little tomato we ever grew, they do not crack like the sweet 100. I grow them on a lattice like structure, when I mow lawn I stop by the plant an eat some just like a drink of water.
Bill

[v w]

It takes six generations to stabilize hybrid seed into an open pollinated type. Seed is saved from plants showing the characteristics that you want IE: the napa grape tomato. Seed companies grow one year here then follow with a season in South America then back in the US so they can do it in 3 years. Even then you may not get what you want exactly. Inbreeding can also cause problems. Hybrids themselves may vary some. I have seen a plug flat of Early Girl have a couple plants throw a potato leaf. I am sure the seed could be saved and you will get something and the odds are that most will be close. My advice? Buy the seed. Vern

[Bill]

VW,
Have been buying these seed for several years, just thought we might try saving some. But if we miss we will lose a year of these good tomatoes, not worth the gamble. Will buy seed from Burbees. Thanks for your input.
Bill