Hybrid (F1, filial 1)
The crossing of two distinct inbred lines produce seeds that are similar to
each other. For example: If a pea plant that is true breeding (homozygous)
for purple flowers (dominant trait) is crossed with a true-breeding pea
plant for white flowers (recessive trait), then the first generation (F1-Hybrid,
heterozygous) will display purple flowers. However, if members of the F1
generation are crossed together (the F2 generation), they will produce some
plants with purple flowers and some with white flowers (approximately
75 per cent purple and 25 per cent white). Since the results will be mixed,
it is commonly advised not to save seeds from hybrids if regularity in the
offspring is desired (if regularity is not an issue, seeds from hybrids can be
grown out and the variety of resulting plants observed).
“part of the value
of growing heirloom varieties in home gardens
is crops that weren’t selected primarily for their
commercial properties, such as shipping suitability
or shelf life, can be explored and enjoyed.”
Improved
A line is said to be improved when an otherwise open-polli-
nated variety is further selected from and desirous traits are
emphasized. If a seed line has been noticeably enhanced
by further inbreeding, it is described as improved. Clover
bred to be shorter for use in lawns is an example of an
improved clover. Another example would be when the
process of seed saving over several years enhances a
variety’s suitability for a given environment.
Open Pollinated/Heirloom
Open-pollinated seeds are from a true-breeding
population for enough traits, so the offspring will
resemble both the parents and each other. Part of
the value of growing heirloom varieties in home
gardens is crops that weren’t selected primarily
for their commercial properties, such as shipping
suitability or shelf life, can be explored and
enjoyed. Some of the best tasting tomatoes are
unsuitable for storage and shipping but can be
grown in a backyard garden where they can be
eaten shortly after picking. Open-pollinated
plants are considered to be the best seeds for
seed saving from one season to the next.
Organic
Certified organic seeds have been
collected from plants grown under
the USDA’s National Organic
Program. There are specific
guidelines as to how the seeds
may be collected, stored, and
handled before packaging.
GMO seeds are not eligible
for organic certification.
70
Maximum Yield