What are heirloom seeds and why grow them?

Heirloom seeds are like treasure chests of our farming history.

Heirloom seeds are a special kind of seed that has been passed down through generations, carefully saved by gardeners and farmers because they have special qualities and flavours.

The seeds are a minimum of 50 years old, but many are as much as 200 years old. They are “pure” in the sense that there is no hybridisation or cross pollination, and they have all been pollinated through natural means, such as wind, bees, butterflies, etc. 

By planting heirloom seeds, we are helping to keep these old varieties alive.

Since they are not genetically modified, hybrids, or cross pollinated, they generate plants and fruit true to type, meaning there is very little variation. This is one reason that they are the one sure-fire way to be able to harvest seeds from your crop year after year. 

Fantastic Flavours and Fun Shapes

One of the coolest things about heirloom seeds are the unique shapes and incredible flavours that they bring to our food. They can be fruit & vegetables, herbs or flowers. What makes them special is that they have been around for a long, long time. They have not been changed by scientists or big companies like some other seeds. Imagine biting into a tomato bursting with sweetness or seeing a carrot in a shade you’ve never seen before. Heirlooms make food exciting!

Supporting Local and Nature

Growing heirloom seeds helps our local farmers and our environment. These seeds are often suited to our specific regions, making them strong and able to grow with fewer or no chemicals. When we choose heirloom seeds, we support local farmers and help keep our planet healthy.

Getting Close to Nature

Growing heirloom seeds connects us with nature and our roots. As we care for our plants, we become part of a long line of gardeners who loved and cared for these special seeds. Saving and sharing the seeds also brings us together as a community, learning from each other and growing together.

In a world of the same old stuff, heirloom seeds bring back the magic of the past. By growing them, we honour our heritage, enjoy incredible flavours, help local farmers, and feel closer to nature. So, let’s bring the stories of our seeds to life, one tasty bite at a time!

Visit our shop to view the full range of heirloom seeds that we sell.