What are Heirloom seeds and varieties?
Heirloom plants are the gift of our genetic heritage. They have been passed down through the generations. Most heirloom varieties are of European descent, brought here by immigrants and saved diligently by each generation. Unfortunately, modern agricultural practices have caused us to lose 97% of the vegetable varieties that were available in the U.S. in 1900.1 Each of the remaining heirloom varieties is therefore a precious commodity. They are all treasures that have endured the test of time and have unique characteristics, including wonderful flavor, hardiness and resistance to disease and drought.
