A Brief Overview of Seed Saving
Why cultivate local plants
Though seemingly imperceptible, each choice we make daily influences not only our own well-being but the entire ecosystem of our planet. Native plants have escaped the journey in giant containers, have adapted to local soil and climate and can be cultivated without the haze of pesticides. Such plants provide superior nourishment, with a richer flavor and more pronounced aroma. Read more...
Why building a personal seed collection matters
Today, seeds are readily available for purchase, are stored in seed banks for preservation, but also can be cultivated at home by repeatedly growing varieties that best suit our families. It is this practice of growing our own seeds that ensures the genetic diversity of our crops. While seed banks safeguard a small collection of our agricultural heritage, it is in the seed savers gardens and farms that plants continue to naturally evolve and adapt. These locally adapted varieties, suited to different growing conditions and selection criteria, are the most valuable treasure of our countryside. Read more...
The task of the seed saver
While a gardener aims to produce a high-quality harvest and create a beautiful garden, a seed saver has an additional goal: to cultivate high-quality offspring from their plants. Seed savers delve deep into the history and life cycle of each plant, understanding their unique characteristics and optimal growing conditions. By carefully selecting and propagating the most suitable plants, seed savers create a collection tailored to their specific needs. Read more...
History of Seed Savers Movement in Latvia
The seedling of the Seed Savers Movement in Latvia was planted in 2011, brought back from a seed exchange event in Hungary. Through deep learning and collaboration with European seed savers, the movement has blossomed, gaining recognition across Latvia and attracting an ever-growing circle of gardeners dedicated to preserving heirloom plants. Read more...
What is an heirloom plant
Over time, heirloom plants adapt to their local climate and soil. A plant is considered heirloom if it has been cultivated by a family for at least 30 years, within a specific region, farm, or household. Along with these plants, family stories and cherished recipes are passed down from generation to generation. Read more...
The success factors of the Seed Savers Movement
The Seed Savers Movement has experienced several pivotal moments that have fueled its growth and recognition: collaborations with experts, lecturers, scientists, library and museum networks, international experience exchanges, and the involvement of professional designers and copywriters in developing a brand and identity. Read more...
Challenges
Initially, the Seed Savers Movement thrived on pure enthusiasm. However, to sustain and expand, it requires consistent investment of time, energy, and financial resources. A current challenge is to refine the seed exchange system and develop a strategy that will enable the Seed Savers Movement to become a professional force in its field. This involves crafting a strong brand identity, fostering collaboration among collectors, and engaging a wider network of interested individuals, organizations, and professionals. Read more...
Why do seed savers continue their work and don't give up
Everyone finds their own unique motivation to continue their seed saving endeavors. For some, it is practical considerations, like the desire for independence from commercial seed markets. Others are driven by a deep emotional connection to heirloom plants, while some are drawn to the social aspect, enjoying the community and support network that comes with seed sharing. Still others feel a sense of mission, or a combination of all these factors. Read more...
How can you participate in saving heirloom plants
When you find an heirloom plant, it is important to collect not only its seeds but also as much information about it as possible. To ensure that the seeds carry on the plant's unique growing characteristics and history, no question is too small. Where did it come from? How long has it been grown? How is it propagated and cared for? What is it used for? What are its unique flavors and aromas? How are the seeds harvested? What family stories and memories are associated with it? Happy hunting for valuable finds! Read more...
Summary: how the Seed Savers Movement works
To revitalize the seed saving and heirloom plant movement – or more accurately, to remind people of what has been the foundation of our ancestors' lives – has required a long journey of building our own experiences and involving people from various fields. While libraries, museums, botanical gardens, scientists, and other professionals have made significant contributions, it is ultimately each individual's desire to continue their family's legacy of nurturing crops that drives this movement. Read more...
The content of this page was created as part of the project 'Building Digital Education of Indigenous Inherited Crops for the Resilience of African Food Systems in the Climate Crisis Development.' The project was funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2024 from the development cooperation budget. This content reflects only the views of the project partners.
