Liz wrote:
Oh man,
I just plunked down $xxx dollars for two family pack seed banks from [...] and I’m second guessing myself. I do not see them recommended on your website. Furthermore, I found out that the seeds are NOT certified organic, which makes me a little suspicious because the company uses the word “organic” so much in their descriptions. Whadaya think, Dr.?
Doctor Prepper responds:
Liz:
I’m not sure from your description from whom you bought the seeds, so what I say will be generic; i.e., not directed at any specific dealer or distributor, but just some words of advice from my own experience. Seed prices are all over the ballpark–some are truly inexpensive and some are really expensive. It’s so easy for a seller’s talented artist to utilize words and graphics to excite he mind of the buyer! Colors, layout, words, and pictures can incite you to action and excite you to make a decision–when perhaps more investigation is needed.
But you know all that! The best thing about the Internet is its wide-ranging search ability–and we all ought to use it more. Comparison shopping is the key to value–not price. There are 3 parts to any consumer buying decision (in my opinion!):
- Quality
- Price
- Delivery
That is the formula for value. Quality is the main qualifier for my buying decision–will it do what I want to do with it and how badly do I need it to accomplish my greater goals? Then it’s price–can I afford it at this time and where is it in my hierarchy of needs? Then, when will I get it into my possession? That’s a lot to deal with on items about which you have little experience in a particular field or for a particular item.
Before you spend that much money, you should spend hours comparison shopping–noting what a specific sum of money will provide, and what you get for your investment–seed-by-seed or item-by-item comparing like items until you have the knowledge to make a good buying decision Then the remorse and or second-guessing goes away.
If a company has mis-represented their product, you should take recourse against them and get your money back. If they don’t treat you fairly, there are solutions for that, too.
I hope you can decide the appropriate thing to do to resolve this situation for your peace of mind.
Doctor Prepper
Liz,
I would also like to add that “certified organic” is not necessarily the best choice to make. The seeds that you would want to rely more solely on is non-genetically modified (non-GMO). These seeds are typically heirloom varieties where their genetic make-up has not been altered. Additionally, non-gmo will provide seeds for future harvests.
I agree with Dr. Prepper in spending a lot of time researching the type of seeds you want, finding the right varieties for you, and which varieties are best for your zone.
Looks can be deceiving as far as the seed packages go. There are some survival seed companies that have a lot of seeds for the summer, but do not provide a lot of seeds to live off of for the Fall and Winter seasons. These are some considerations to keep in mind when researching.
When you do find a seed company that you like, email them and see if their seeds are non-gmo seeds and if they have a safe seed pledge.
These are just some thoughts to help you on your journey.
Best of luck to you,
Tess
I agree 100% with Dr Prepper and Tess.
First, quality should be the primary concern because;
1. if your seed is of low quality it likely will also have low germination potential. If you can’t grow it, you can’t eat it!
2. Non-GMO is very important as well. You want to grow as nature intended as well as protect your well-being from modified seed that may include animal,virus, bacterial, and other types of gene’s.
3. Non-Hybrid allows you to save seed and replant next year with a trusted, safe,economical, and sustainable source.
4. Taking the safe seed pledge is a also one indicator that you have found a good and serious seed company.
The pledge can be fund here:
http://www.councilforresponsiblegenetics.org/pageDocuments/IVYEP234F2.pdf
5. Also it is very difficult to find a seed that is all three: non-gmo, non-hybird, and certified organic.
Other important things to consider:
a. is the packing food safe and capable for long-term storage. (i.e. non-pvc)
b. are the seed counts/weights comparable to a pack you would find elsewhere at a reputable company.
c. again, are the germination rates well above the industry and required standards.
d. does the company have ties to any major corporations like Monsanto.
e. Last but least-you want a good varietal seed selection that you would enjoy planting/eating and also one that will be robust in various growing regions and various planting seasons. In the end you don’t want seven types of beans or thousands of radish seeds to be most of seed “bank”.
Best!
Jim