Questions frequently asked of me at the Lewes Historical Farmers Market last summer regarded organic seed and potting soil sources. Potting soil opens up a whole other composting bag of worms, so we’ll get to that in a future article.For now, it’s not too early to start thinking about where to get our seeds for the spring. Put on the tea kettle, slip into your favorite sweater, and join the dog in front of the fire in that comfy chair you should have put in a yard sale. It’s time to start pouring over those wonderful seed catalogs filling our mail boxes—a sensuous treat on a chilly winter day.
Organic certification. Does the source assure that the grower is not using synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or GMOs (genetically modified organisms)? Organic growers also have to practice sustainable farming methods such as crop rotation and composting in order to naturally build the soil.
Freedom of information. Does the source define organic growing practices, location of the originating grower, and the name of the organic certifier?
Availability of non-hybrid, heirloom seeds. Are the origins, including plant strain, for an assortment of seeds delineated? Saved from generation to generation, heirloom seeds preserve plant diversity.
Availability of rare and traditional varieties. Does the source offer a comprehensive listing of both hard-to-find and common specimens?
Packaging options. Are there a variety of options ranging from bulk bags (1lb plus), down to small packets (less than 1/4 ounce)? I use seed for small plantings in our home garden, for landscaping at our store, and for larger commercial planting at our farm. Consider different packet size options scaled up or down depending on budget and garden needs. Larger sizes could be shared with neighbors for volume discounts.
Discounts. Are free shipping, online specials, toll free ordering, and customer service ordering offered?
Timed shipping. Does delivery coincide with the growing season? Your seed should arrive when you need to start planting.
Following are some organic seed suppliers you might want to consider. Their stock includes flowers (edible and non-edible), herbs, and vegetables:
Burpee. Founded in 1876, Burpee is one of the largest seed companies in the United States. While Burpee has a wide selection of heirloom and hybrid seeds, they also have a growing collection of certified organic seeds in popular categories like peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, basil, parsley, and chives. (burpee.com or 800-333-5808)
High Mowing Seeds. An independent, family-owned business in Vermont, dedicated to supporting sustainable agriculture. They offer all of their selections in small and bulk quantities, many shipping within 24 hours. It’s a joy to do business with this company. All seed is certified organic. (highmowingseeds.com or 802-472-6174)
Fedco Seeds. Located in Maine and dedicated to varieties suited to the Northeast. Their catalog is a true work of poetic and visual art. Fedco has over 215 organic seed types, including less common heirloom and niche varieties. Not all seed is certified organic. (fedcoseeds.com or 207-873-7333)
Seeds of Change. Located in New Mexico. In addition to offering an array of organic seeds, Seeds of Change has also started a seed donation program in which seeds are shared with organizations that promote education and sustainable living through organic gardening projects. All seed is certified organic. (seedsofchange.com or 888-762-7333)
Johnny Seeds. Located in Maine. Their easy to navigate website offers choices, such as “edible,” “easy to grow,” and “fragrant” to allow the user to specify the type of plant they desire. Not all seed is certified organic. (johnnyseeds.com or 877-564-6697)
Seed Savers Exchange. A non-profit group of gardeners saving and sharing heirloom seed. They are located on an 890-acre farm in Iowa and offer tours, celebrations, and concerts throughout the year. Not all seed is certified organic. (seedsavers.org or 563-382-5990).
Andy Meddick is an organic farmer/retailer and owner of Good For You Market, Juice Bar, and Organic Farm, in Lewes, Delaware. Certified organic seeds can be purchased directly at his store. To learn more call Andy at 302-684-8330 or visit good4uorganic.com.
