Few people realize that less than 10% of all seed varieties commonly grown in 1900 are still with us today. They’re extinct–gone forever, because no one took the time to preserve them for future generations. That risk is even greater today thanks to the genetic manipulation of a relatively few remaining seed varieties, combined with the massive buying up of smaller seed companies by overseas giants. The mission of protecting, preserving, and sharing today’s precious seed and heirloom varieties has never been more important. Thankfully, one company established to do just that is alive and well and- since 1975- has been thriving in their efforts to preserve our horticultural diversity. Seed Savers Exchange has an active international membership of over 13,000 who are helping with the cause.
In this episode, we make a trip to Iowa to their scenic 890-acre Heritage Farm to learn more about their process as well as the risks and challenges of safeguarding today’s precious seed varieties for future generations.
About Joe Lamp'l
Joe Lamp'l is the Host and Executive Producer of the award winning PBS television series Growing A Greener World. Off camera, Joe dedicates his time to promoting sustainability through his popular books, blog, podcast series, and nationally syndicated newspaper columns. Follow Joe on Twitter
I am looking for old fashioned watermelon seeds. The long ones that I ate as a kid. My dad bought them at the store, off the back of trucks and I remember them growing in the fields. They were of course full of seeds that we would spit at each other. I would truly appreciate your help in finding some of these seeds.
Many thanks
Veronica
Hi Veronica. You should def. check out Seed Savers Exchange. Their website is: http://www.seedsavers.org