The Seed Saving Bible

Enjoy your favorite varieties of garden plants year after year with this comprehensive guide to gathering, preparing, and planting seeds. Authors Robert Gough and Cheryl Moore-Gough provide simple instructions that clearly explain the whole process, from basic plant biology to proper seed storage and successful propagation. Gardeners of any experience level will find all the information they need to preserve genetic diversity, cut costs, and extend the life of their favorite plants to the next generation and beyond.

Winner of the American Horticultural Society Award for Excellence In Garden Book Publishing Winner of the Silver Medal for Best Reference from the Garden Writer’s Association Filled with advice for the home gardener and the more seasoned horticulturist alike, The Seed Garden: The Art and Practice of Seed Saving provides straightforward instruction on collecting seed that is true-to-type and ready for sowing in next year’s garden. In this comprehensive book, Seed Savers Exchange, one of the foremost American authorities on the subject, and the Organic Seed Alliance bring together decades of knowledge to demystify the time-honored tradition of saving the seed of more than seventy-five coveted vegetable and herb crops—from heirloom tomatoes and long-favored varieties of beans, lettuces, and cabbages to centuries-old varieties of peppers and grains. With clear instructions, lush photographs, and easy-to-comprehend profiles on individual vegetable crops, this book not only teaches us how to go about conserving these important varieties for future generations and for planting out in next year’s garden, it also provides a deeper understanding of the importance of saving these genetically valuable varieties of vegetables that have evolved over the centuries through careful selection by farmers and home gardeners. Through simple lessons and master classes on crop selection, pollination, roguing, and the processes of harvesting and storing seeds, this book ensures that these time-honored traditions can continue. Many of these vegetable varieties are treasured for traits that are singular to their strain, whether that is a resistance to disease, an ability to grow well in a region for which that crop is not typically well suited, resistance to early bolting, or simply because it is a great-tasting variety. In an age of genetically modified crops and hybrid seed, a growing appreciation for saving seeds of these time-tested, open-pollinated cultivars has found a new audience from home vegetable gardeners and cooks to restaurant chefs and local farmers. Whether interested in simply saving seeds for home use or working to conserve rare varieties of beloved squashes and tomatoes, this book provides a deeper understanding of the art, the science, and the joy of saving seeds.

A complete seed-saving guide of 160 vegetables, including detailed info on each vegetable.

Hands-on instructions for sowing seeds from more than 100 common vegetables, annuals, perennials, herbs, and wildflowers.

"This book is sure to be a modern classic and is one of the most important books on gardening in the current century." —Jere Gettle, founder, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds Heirloom Vegetable Gardening has always been a book for gardeners and cooks interested in unique flavors, colors, and history in their produce. This updated edition has been improved throughout with growing zones, advice, and new plant entries. Line art has been replaced with lush, full-color photography. Yet at the core, this book delivers on the same promise it made two decades ago: It’s a comprehensive guide based on meticulous first-person research to these 300+ plants, making it a book to come back to season after season.

“Makes it easy to find information in a snap, on most any edible you want to grow.” —Kylee Baumle, Horticulture Growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs from seed has many benefits for both the gardener and the planet. Why save seeds when you can buy them so cheap? Not only does seed saving allow you to grow a diverse, organic array of fruits and vegetables, it also offers an opportunity to work closely with nature and be even more hands-on with the food you grow, cook, and eat. Supported by research from the global conservation organizations Arche Noah and Pro Specie Rara, The Manual of Seed Saving features information on how to maximize seed quality and yield for crop plants like asparagus, carrots, corn, rhubarb, spinach, squash, and tomatoes. Plant profiles include critical information on pollination, isolation distances, cultivation, harvest, storage, and pests and diseases.

Welcome to the ultimate seed-saving adventure with "The Seed Saving Bible: Cultivate, Conserve, and Sow Your Way to a Flourishing Garden." If you're a passionate gardener seeking to preserve the timeless art of seed saving, this comprehensive guide is an absolute must-have for your green library. Delve into the fascinating world of seed-saving wisdom passed down through generations. Uncover the ancient techniques and modern practices of collecting, storing, and sowing seeds from your most treasured plants. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a curious beginner, this book offers a wealth of knowledge to empower you on your journey towards seed sovereignty. Discover the secrets of cultivating a diverse and resilient garden as you learn how to handpick and save seeds from your most successful crops. With step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations, you'll be guided through the entire seed-saving process, ensuring that your botanical treasures remain pure and vigorous for future harvests. "The Seed Saving Bible" isn't just a manual; it's an ode to the beauty of biodiversity and a tribute to the sacred relationship between plants and humanity. Embrace the joy of preserving heirloom varieties, rare species, and forgotten gems, all while contributing to the conservation of our planet's precious genetic heritage. Embark on a journey of sustainability, self-reliance, and empowerment as you cultivate a garden that sustains not just your body, but also your spirit. Whether you dream of creating a seed bank to share with your community or simply want to deepen your connection with nature, this book will be your trusted companion. Join the ranks of seed-saving enthusiasts, and let "The Seed Saving Bible" be your guiding light to foster a flourishing and fruitful garden that echoes the wisdom of ages past. Let your passion for preservation bloom, and sow the seeds of a greener, more resilient future.

"Find out how to grow heirloom seeds yourself and then how to gather the seeds from the plants you grow for future planting seasons." (from the cover).