Organic seeds carry various benefits, but the main are:
Growing organic seeds offers several benefits, both for farmers and the environment, contributing to sustainable agriculture and healthier ecosystems. Here are some key advantages:
1. Adherence to Organic Standards:
Certified Organic Production: Organic seeds are produced following organic farming principles, ensuring they are free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. This adherence supports organic farmers in maintaining certification and meeting consumer demand for organic products.
2. Preservation of Genetic Diversity:
Biodiversity Conservation: Organic seed production often involves heirloom and open-pollinated varieties. These seeds preserve genetic diversity within plant species, which is crucial for resilience against pests, diseases, and climate change impacts. It also supports local adaptation and traditional farming practices.
3. Improved Soil Health:
Enhanced Soil Fertility: Organic seeds are typically grown in soil managed without synthetic chemicals, relying on natural fertilizers and soil-building practices like composting and cover cropping. This approach promotes soil biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and overall soil health.
4. Support for Ecological Balance:
Reduced Environmental Impact: Organic seed production avoids the environmental impacts associated with synthetic inputs, such as water pollution and soil degradation. It also supports beneficial insects, pollinators, and other wildlife by minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals.
5. Quality and Nutritional Benefits:
Nutrient-Rich Crops: Organic seeds tend to produce crops with higher nutritional quality, as they are grown in well-balanced, biologically active soils. Studies suggest organic produce may have higher levels of certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown counterparts.
6. Resilience to Climate Change:
Adaptation and Resilience: Organic seeds are often selected and adapted to thrive in diverse environmental conditions. This resilience is increasingly important as farmers face challenges from climate variability and extreme weather events.
7. Support for Organic Agriculture Movement:
Market Demand: Growing organic seeds supports the broader organic agriculture movement by providing farmers with access to reliable organic inputs. It also reinforces consumer confidence in organic products and supports the growth of sustainable food systems.
8.All organic seeds are Non-GMO. Many agricultural seeds are intentionally genetically modified, and are subject to additional genetic modification from the application of farm chemicals and processes while growing. As well as the potential health concerns, the use of GM seeds in conventional agriculture is one the main drivers of increased pesticide use and chemicals in agriculture.
Here at OrganicBox, we only use organic seeds, which is an important part of remaining certified organic.
Grow your own seedlings!
Most conventionally produced produce is genetically or chemically altered to prevent them from producing viable seed. Organic seeds from your fruit and veg can produce a plant that you can grow in your garden! Now is a good time to sow garlic and chamomile.
Propagating Chamomile Tea
Simply find a patch of bare, well-drained soil in a sunny location. Rip open a bag of (unused) organic chamomile tea, sprinkle it over the soil and water in well. Germination will start within about two weeks, depending on the time of year.
Propagating Garlic
Pull cloves from bulb but keep the protective husk on each individual clove. Ensure soil is well drained with plenty of organic matter. Plant in Full Sun. Plant 10cm apart and 4cm deep, with the pointed end facing upwards.
