- Grow it naturally. You are growing “organically” on “organic” land > basically land that has not had any conventional/chemical fertilisers, herbicides or insecticides added to it in the last 5 years. Don’t get too worried about the definition of “organic” this doesn’t mean you have to be certified, but following basic principles of organic agriculture.
- Know your neighbours! Are they growing organically too? Are they growing plants that may cross pollinate with your varieties? You could always strategize with them – you never know, they might have some interesting heritage seeds to share! Also be aware of any wild plants growing nearby.
- Do your research! When choosing the plants you want to grow for seed, you’ll need to know the potential of cross pollination, and then use proper isolation distances, or protect your seed plants by creating cages with fine screen. Learn how to select plants for positive characteristics such as disease resistance, early ripening, slow to bolt etc. See BSB Resources page
- Keep basic records throughout the growing season. We have a one page Seed Saver’s Checklist, sent to us by Dan Jason of Salt Spring Seeds, that we will provide a copy of to all plant custodians. It will be important to maintain a record for consistency’s sake, and so that we can share the seeds and information with our community.
- See the BSB Resources on the main page for websites, books, blogs and more…
- Check out the Boundary Seed Bank on the forum – post your comments and experiences through the growing season and benefit from reading others’ experiences and questions.
