A Lesson on Organic Seeds

"It's a wonder you can't detect a pulse from a seed, considering all the life within.

Even before they germinate, you can predict how their life cycle will evolve. Each seed carries a genetic mix that determines hardiness and disease tolerance, plant size, texture and color and distinctive blooms or fruit.

Then there are the differences visible only to the practiced eye between conventional seeds and their organic equivalents. The variations can make all the difference in your garden.

"They come from altogether different circumstances so they have altogether different traits," said Frank Morton, a seedsman and plant breeder from Philomath, Ore.

Organic seeds are often large - containing their own food reserves. Their roots dig deeper to mine the soil and spread leaves quickly to stay ahead of weeds. In other words, they can flourish in poor soil and compete with other plants."

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