The different types of seeds. How to save a seed and your health.

There are four primary types of seeds. Open-pollinated, Heirloom, Hybrid, and GMO.

Open pollinated seeds. Think of these as the original true Mother Nature seed that has been around since the dawn of her earth. These seeds pollinate naturally, through the lovely job of bees and other insects, and adapt to their local surroundings. The seeds can be saved and re-used from year to year. Recent changes in chemical farming practices have destroyed much of the rich varieties provided to us by mama earth.

Heirloom Seeds are the open pollinated seeds that have been passed down through generations and are carefully managed to ensure both the integrity and longevity of the seeds. These are the seeds Betsy loves!

Hybrid Seeds started in the 1920’s. By the 1950’s people began frequently mixing different types of seeds together to create hybrid plants. The idea behind this was to create changes ranging from different colors (i.e. a bright red tomato) to a longer shelf life. While this approach may certainly have its benefits, the drawbacks can be significant including the inability to save the seed into the following year, loss of either ‘parent’ traits, and ultimately losing the original seed. Note: Hybrid seeds are not GMO’s. GMO’s are damaging to your health and the earth. Hybrids are not.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO’s) are a recent change and are accomplished through introducing genetic materials from completely different organisms, such as viruses and bacteria. GMO’s were first introduced into our food supplies by biotech companies and have served the monetary purpose of increased crop herbicide and pesticide tolerance, resulting in super bugs and weeds, and ultimately increased chemical use. The question is, at what price? Genetic modification has been linked to major health issues. In most parts of the world, GMO’s are either banned, or require labeling. In the US, the majority of our processed food are GMO’s, derived from such ingredients, as corn, soy, canola, and cotton.

What are a few things you can you do to save your health and the earth? Avoid GMO’s. Eat organic. Shop at your local farmers market. Stop eating processed food. Join a local seed saving organization. Have some fun and plant a few veggies of your own.