Science has done wonders. But here’s what delights those who love heirloom plants
Advancements in bioengineering have created a plethora of seeds for the garden. Vegetables and flowers come in just about every size, shape and color. In addition, modern science has been able to develop breed resistance to many common plant ailments such as powdery mildew, or Fusarium wilt.
With all this development, it is interesting to see the resurgence of old varieties making a comeback. These so-called “heirlooms” are as popular as ever. The rising popularity stems from those interested in natural and organic products.
Heirlooms have many definitions, ranging from seeds passed down from family to family, to seeds open-pollinated, to varieties released before World War II. Basically, heirloom seeds are seeds that come back true to their original form year after year.
Modern seeds are hybrids resulting from a specific cross between two parents. Planting offspring from a hybrid may not produce a plant like the original. Many times, offspring revert to one of the parents.
Growing the old varieties can be fun, as they often possess numerous traits lost through modern hybridization. While heirlooms have many unique characteristics, there are usually fewer desirable traits as well.
Heirlooms evolved long before genetic disease or insect resistance was possible. We all know the potential threat for serious disease or insect problems in today’s gardens. A good example of this is heirloom tomatoes, such as Brandywine. This popular old tomato has probably the best flavor of any variety.
Due to its lack of disease resistance, it is susceptible to wilt, which can completely wipe out the crop. This is a disappointment after you’ve gone to all the time and trouble to start seedlings from seed and lovingly nurtured them to maturity in the garden.
Bioengineering has also shrunk the size of modern plants while enhancing the edible part for increased productivity. Developing smaller plants helps them fit into today’s smaller gardens.
Older varieties tend to be rangy in appearance and less productive per unit area. Brandywine is a good example. It can reach 8 to 10 feet, while new tomato varieties may grow only 4 feet. Brandywine fruit cracks easily, while modern tomatoes are firm and resist cracking, with improved quality.
Heirloom seeds are easily saved from season to season with no loss in characteristics. Because of the risk of carrying over disease problems from year to year, be careful when saving or giving seeds away to other gardeners.
Pay attention to the source of the seed. Heirloom seeds should come either from a reliable supplier or a grower trusted to maintain healthy, vigorous plants. Finding a reputable supplier is not difficult as the seed catalogs and the internet is full of heirloom seeds.
Whether you choose heirlooms or the newer varieties, growing your own produce can bring a sense of accomplishment. The renewed interest in growing vegetables is wonderful, as more people experience the joys of harvesting food from our gardens, not a plastic bag from the store.
Dennis Patton is a horticulture agent with Kansas State University Research and Extension. Have a question for him or other university extension experts? Email them to garden.help@jocogov.org.
