Why use Organic seed?
A common question we are asked is why someone should grow from Organic seed. The benefits of organically grown produce are more immediately understandable: no chemicals or pesticides on the food you are eating. But what would the benefits be of organically grown seed? After all, aren’t all seeds the same no matter where they come from? Not exactly!
Provider Bean Organically Produced at our Farm
When seed is certified Organic, it means that the plants that produced the seed were grown using standardized practices and inputs. One important aspect of producing seed is selection, or harvesting seed from only the most vigorous and healthy plants. Organic seed thus comes from plants selected for their performance in Organic conditions. They are in many ways more hardy and well adapted to natural environmental conditions. Since strong chemical fertilizers are not used, plants grown and selected in organic systems prove more resilient and resourceful at scavenging nutrients. Also, pest control options are limited when growing organically, so plants must also become hardy enough to withstand pest and disease damage.
North Pole Organic Seed Crop Harvest
Many conventional vegetable varieties have been bred to rely on cultivation methods that include regular applications of synthetic fertilizers and chemical pesticides. When these conventional varieties are taken out of their “ideal” growing environment they can produce less effectively. Organically produced and bred vegetable varieties can be more adapted to the kind of environment found in an organic home garden.
Additionally, when you are purchasing seed that is grown organically you are supporting a grower or business that is practicing organic and sustainable agriculture. Organic and sustainable farming greatly lessens the use of artificial fertilizers, chemical pest controls, and other environmentally impactful practices. This can help reduce the negative impact on our water supplies, pollinator insect populations, worker health, and our environment generally. Using organically grown seed is great for the environment!
When it is available use organically grown seed for your organic garden, and you will see the difference adapted seed will make, and also know that your choice is helping keep our soil and environment healthy!
Author: Tim R.
