An heirloom is a traditional crop variety that growers propagate by saving seeds from year to year. These open-pollinated plants breed true to type, meaning the offspring closely resemble the parent plants. Growers value them for unique flavor profiles, genetic diversity, and regional adaptability, which are often lost in highly uniform commercial hybrids.
Heard on the job
I'm dedicating three rows in the high tunnel to heirloom tomatoes this season because the local chefs pay a premium for them.
Insider tip
A true heirloom must be open-pollinated; if you save seeds from a commercial hybrid, the next generation will not produce the same traits.
Also heard as
- heritage variety