Heirloom Seed Saving - Heirloom plants are handed down from generation to generation. Each time we save the seed from our best melon, the first tomato to ripen, the squash that overwintered, the disease resistant cumber, or the most prolific corn - we become part of the story and the future of that plant. Each time we save our own open pollinated seeds, we are adapting them to the length of season, climate, soil, and conditions of our own back yard.

In the last 100 years, we have lost over 90% of the genetic diversity among the food crops that feed the world. Since chemical companies bought up our major seed houses, they put emphasis on hybrid crops adapted to Mid-West/big Ag, and crops that could be harvested unripe and shipped thousands of miles. These hybrid plants are patented genetic clones that prevent us from saving our own seed, and connections to our heritage.

I value flavor, food security, and our regional, cultural and bio diversity. I value preservation of our cultural inheritance, and I value value. Heirloom seeds are free, and seed saving is easy! Seed saving is an art, a craft, a science project, and a connection to everyone who lived before us. Give it a try! What heirloom seeds are you saving this season? The Heirloom Gardener - John Forti

Artist - Kehben Grier #heirloomgardener