The Bite:
Then heirloom is king. Consider heirloom seeds (ones that haven't been genetically modified or hybridized) for your spring planting, so by summer you'll be rich with royally tasty produce fit for a monarch.
Want homegrown veggies that don't all taste and look the same?
03.11.2008
Submitted by tmeronek on Tue, 03/11/2008 - 12:35am.
The Benefits:
- Sitting high on the variety throne. Heirlooms offer unique flavors and appearances you won't find with species cultivated for uniformity and climate adaptability.
- The noblesse oblige of protecting biodiversity. Since 1800, we've lost 75% of the genetic diversity of agricultural crops.
Personally Speaking:
Heather picked up heirloom tomato seeds just 'cuz she liked the names. Bull's Heart, Green Zebra, and Purple Calabash caprese, anyone?
Wanna Try:
- Seeds of Change and Seeds Trust - 100% organic seeds, including many heirloom varieties ($2-$3/pack).
- Seed Savers Exchange - fellow gardeners who save and share rare heirloom seeds.
- Heirloom Vegetable Gardener's Assistant - handy advice and guidance for both heirloom newbies and experts.
- DIY Bite: Ask around at your local farmers market for suggestions on good heirlooms to plant in your area.
Cocktail Fact
Heirloom rose fanatics (sometimes called "rose wranglers") love spending time in cemeteries, since long-gone visitors often planted varieties you can't find elsewhere.
Bang For The Bite
Better and more diverse flavors aside, making space for heirloom varieties in your garden helps keep diverse plant species around.
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