Heirloom Flowers and Vegetables
There are multiple definitions of an heirloom plant.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines an heirloom fruit or vegetable as: "A cultivar of a vegetable or fruit that is open-pollinated and is not grown widely for commercial purposes. An heirloom often exhibits a distinctive characteristic such as superior flavor or unusual coloration."
Seed Savers Exchange defines an heirloom as any garden plant that has a history of being passed down within a family, just like pieces of heirloom jewelry or furniture.
Other companies have tried to create definitions based on date, such as anything older than 50 years.
Heirloom Fruits and Vegetables are quickly becoming a trend in horticulture because the genetic variety of the world's food crops is wasting away at an extraordinary and increasing rate. Each variety is genetically unique and has developed resistance to the diseases and pests with which it evolved. Without infusions from older breeds’ genetic diversity, food production is at risk from epidemics and infestations.
Classic Plants
Saving these classic plants is starting to mean alot to gardeners. Mindful gardening is in! "Core values of responsibility, meaningful relationships and connectivity to neighbors and communities are surging," says McCoy, president of Garden Media Group.
The "can-do" spirit empowered by a new sense of self-sufficiency is driving an improved appreciation for our land— defined more by caretakers rather than developers.
Sharing resources, skills, space, tools and time is also quickly becoming a trend as well, supporting our neighbors and strengthening neighborhoods.
Home
Next Trend: Small Space Gardening
Resources
Whoa, its Been A While. Gardening in Converse-Gardening With Bite Blog, 23 September 2008. Web. 27 October 2010.
Garden Media Group's Seven Trends For 2010. Greenhouse Grower Magazine, 10 November 2009. Web. 27 October 2010.
Heirloom Seeds (Flowers and Vegetables) uniquely productive in the Southwest U.S. and Texas. Plantanswers.com. 2010. Web. 27 October 2010.
Franzen, Willy. Seed Savers Exchange. One Day One Job, 4 October 2009. Web. 27 October 2010.