Heirloom seeds - what they are and why they are awesome

Heirloom seeds come from plants that have been handed down within a family or community. What makes heirloom plants exciting is their genetic diversity. Individual strains and substrains of plants evolve and are nurtured and cross-bred to withstand very specific, localized conditions (weather, seasons, pests, diseases, etc.) so frequently heirloom strains are readily adapted to a niche.

The heyday of heirloom plants was in previous centuries, before modern genetic modifications were possible and travel was less frequent. Individual plants were less productive but a typical garden or field contained a wide variety of plants.

Heirloom plants display genetic diversity that is rapidly eroding in modern agriculture. Today, genetically altered and genetically identical crops are grown on thousands of acres at a time. A single fungus or novel pest could wipe out an entire region's food supply. These genetically altered plants are the vegetable equivalent of purebred animals: superior in many ways, but subject to diseases. Genetically-modified crops lack the hybrid vigor that keeps mutts (and heirloom plants) healthy.

By getting involved in heirloom seeds, you are helping the world to preserve its genetic diversity. You are helping to prevent the extinction of valuable plants. You are creating new heirloom seeds by planting, harvesting and replanting your seeds. And you are joining a community of like-minded people who want to preserve our heritage.

To learn more about the basics of heirloom seeds and why they are important, visit Seed Savers Exchange -- a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving garden biodiversity. Seed Savers members receive access to thousands of heirloom vegetables.

Plant something today -- for the future!