Some people collect charms. Some people collect comic books. I collect seeds.
Whether I need them or not, I can’t seem to stop myself. Sure, I already have 18 different varieties of tomato seeds, a dozen types of pepper seeds, and seeds for something called a “rat's tail radish” in my refrigerator -- and only a city lot on which to plant them. But when my favorite seed catalog appears every year, how can I pass up the chance to grow vegetables with names like “jaune dickfleischige” (cucumber), “lipstick” (pepper), “Ukranian beauty” (eggplant), or “Ruby Wallace’s old time white” (cucumber)? These are all heirloom varieties that are available thanks to the diligence of passionate seed collectors from all over the world.
Seed companies that specialize in heirloom varieties offer primarily open pollinated seeds – allowing growers to collect seeds for future planting - rather than the hybrid seeds more commonly found in nursery centers. Interest in heirloom seeds has surged in recent years due to concerns over genetically modified seeds. Whether you're a first time gardener, as Ariane was last year, or an old hat, heirlooms offer us all a chance to grow some really unusual specimens.
The selections above are all from Baker Creed Heirloom Seeds, but they're by no means the only option for unusual heirloom seeds. Others to try:
