HEIRLOOM SEEDS

Words by Abbey Stevens

Most of us have probably noticed signs for heirloom tomatoes at local farmer’s markets - I know I have seen them more times than I can count. But before I got involved in the world of gardening, I had no idea what in the world an heirloom tomato was. I thought it was maybe just a type of tomato. You know, there’s just so many… Roma, beefsteak, cherry, early girl, San Marzano, the list goes on and on.

The truth is, that’s not the case. An heirloom plant is a variety that has not been cross bred with other tomato varieties and is open-pollinated, meaning that it must be pollinated by insects or by natural mechanism. And it doesn’t only refer to tomatoes. There can be heirloom green beans, corn, squash, and countless other things. If you can name it, there’s probably an heirloom variety available somewhere.

To be considered an heirloom variety, the cultivar must be at least 50 years old and must be non-hybrid and open pollinated. Most varieties are also native to our area. With that kind of background, I think it’s safe to say that these plants generally thrive in our conditions. That said, beginner gardeners can take advantage of these characteristics for a confidence booster when working up to more difficult plants.

In order to keep heirloom seed varieties locally available, Clemson University has an heirloom seed program that relies on individuals growing heirloom plants on personal property and returning seeds at the end of the season. Fruits can be taken for personal use, but it is asked that the seed return at least doubles the seed dispersed. Which, in theory, should be easily attainable, with plenty of fruits left for personal consumption. For a list of heirloom seed available, click here.

For me, it’s a very southern and classic idea to think that I am growing the same type of beans that my ancestors could have grown many moons ago. And even more so think that my future family will have the chance to grow the same plants that our family has been growing for so many years.