There are four different methods that are each widely employed to judge a cultivars qualifications as an Heirloom: 100 years old, 50 years old, Pre- 1945 (end of WWII), and Pre-1951 (Considered the beginning of the wide-spread commercial distribution of seeds.)  Each of these methods also requires that a cultivar be Open-Pollinated (Non-Hybrid , true to type producer).

Most Heirlooms have special appearances or enhanced flavors, but are not widely used in the commercial market due to their shelf life or shipping stability . These varieties are excellent for the home gardener and the Field -to-Table Market Farmers.

 Why Save Heirloom Seeds:

 Seed saving makes the gardener part of the living legacy of traditional methods of farming.