Seed Saving & Heirloom Crops

Saving and sharing seeds helps maintain plant diversity, preserve heirloom varieties, and create resilient local food systems. By selecting and cultivating regionally adapted crops, growers of all sizes, including home gardeners, small-scale producers, and large farms, can improve food security, reduce input costs, and maintain genetic diversity in their crops.

Conservation districts provide education on seed saving techniques, help growers select climate-resilient crops, and support seed exchanges to strengthen local food networks.

How to Start Seed Saving:

• Choose heirloom varieties: Unlike hybrids, these plants produce seeds that remain true to type.
• Harvest seeds from the healthiest plants: Select plants that show the best disease resistance, yield, and climate adaptability.
• Properly dry and store seeds: Keep seeds in a cool, dry place to maintain viability for future seasons.
• Rotate crops and prevent cross-pollination: Use isolation techniques or staggered planting to ensure genetic purity.
• Participate in local seed exchanges or swaps: Local seed swaps are a great way to share regionally adapted seeds, discover new varieties, and connect with other growers.
• Consider on-farm or commercial seed production: Farmers can produce seeds for sale or to sustain their own long-term production.