Whats the difference and which should you use?
You’ve likely come across both but did you know organic seeds and heirloom seeds are not the same? While they’re sometimes used interchangeably, they are distinctly different but do also overlap. Choosing the right type of seeds for your garden depends on your priorities, whether that’s sustainability, heritage, or the ability to save seeds for future planting. He’s everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Organic Seeds
• Definition: Organic seeds are produced according to organic farming standards, such as those certified by the Soil Association or similar bodies. These standards ensure seeds are grown without synthetic chemicals, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Certification: Organic seeds in the UK must meet organic certification standards, which focus on sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.
• Varieties: Organic seeds can include heirloom, hybrid, or modern varieties as long as they are produced under organic conditions.
• Availability: Widely available from UK suppliers.
Heirloom Seeds
• Definition: Heirloom seeds come from plant varieties passed down through generations, often over 50–100 years. They are valued for their history, flavour, and genetic diversity.
• Pollination: Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated, meaning they rely on natural pollination (e.g., by insects or wind). The seeds can be saved and replanted, producing the same plants year after year.
• Focus: Heirloom seeds preserve traditional plant varieties that are often tastier, more colourful, or unique compared to modern hybrids.
• Growing Practices: Heirloom seeds are not automatically organic—they could be grown conventionally unless specifically labelled as organic.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Organic Seeds | Heirloom Seeds |
| Definition | Grown using organic farming methods. | Traditional plant varieties passed down through generations. |
| Growing Practices | Certified organic, no synthetic chemicals. | Can be grown conventionally or organically. |
| Seed Type | Can be heirloom hybrid or modern varieties. | Always open pollinated, non-hybrid varieties. |
| Replanting | Hybrid organic seeds may not breed true. | Seeds can be saved and replanted, producing the same plants. |
| Focus | Sustainable farming and environmental health. | Preserving genetics identity and heritage priorities. |
Overlap
Some seeds are both organic and heirloom, meaning they are heirloom varieties grown under organic farming conditions. For example, many seed suppliers in the UK offer organic versions of heritage vegetable varieties.
Which should you choose?
• Choose organic seeds if you prioritise sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
• Choose heirloom seeds if you want to grow traditional, open-pollinated varieties and save seeds for future planting.
• Choose organic heirloom seeds for the best of both worlds.
