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Hey Y’all! Welcome back! Today is all about hybrids vs. Heirloom seeds. First, let's get started by getting to know what each of these terms is. Hybrid seeds are seeds from plants that have been cross-pollinated, to make more favorable traits in the plant. While heirloom seeds usually have a long history, they all have the same characteristics. Most of the heirloom seeds are kept for a new season of growing since they do not cross-pollinate with other plant species, while hybrids can cross-pollinate with other species of the same plant and make a new plant hybrid.
Now that you know what they are, let's talk about why you should use each of them. For hybrids, they are best when you aren’t looking to save seeds for the next growing season. Since the plants have been bred for the most favorable traits they are known to be more disease tolerant, have higher yields, better flavors, and mature earlier. These plants are good for smaller gardens, or new gardeners. Since they are more resistant to common diseases and pests. Here is my favorite hybrid Tomato, it is a staple in my garden! https://amzn.to/4cqb0A9
On the other hand, heirloom seeds have not been cross-pollinated for better traits, they are usually an older seed that has been passed down. These seeds are best for when you want to save seeds for the next growing season. Seeds are usually saved from the best fruit or vegetable on the plant to ensure the seeds are the best for the next season. While heirloom seeds are usually more hardy, it can be difficult for beginners to care for the plant since they can be prone to more diseases. But, all these seeds are non-GMO, which can be appealing to more people, and you can get the most bang for your buck if you save the seeds for years to come! One $3 seed packet can make over 15 plants, if you save seeds from at least one fruit or veggie you can be well set on seeds for the future years to come! Here is an amazing deal on Amazon for some heirloom veggie seeds, https://amzn.to/3TKUumW
While we learned what each of the different seeds was best for, it is all gardener preference. Each seed type has its advantages and disadvantages. It is best to read the back of the seed packet to learn about the plants you are growing to know how to best care for them in a way that they succeed. You can always leave me a comment and we can review what would be best for your area! Happy Gardening everyone!
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