Seeds

Articles

Bulk Seed Sales, Packaging, and Sizes

At Botanical Interests, we do not sell seeds by weight or offer bulk discounts for orders of fewer than 100 packets. Each seed packet’s weight or seed count is listed on the product page. We also do not offer smaller or larger packaging sizes than th

Common Seed Questions: GMO, Hybrid, Open-Pollinated, and Heirloom

Understanding the different types of seeds can help you make the best choice for your garden. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about GMO, hybrid, heirloom, and open-pollinated seeds. No, we do not sell GMO seeds. Botanical Interests

Do Your Seeds Contain Neonicotinoids or Other Pesticides?

No, our seeds are not treated with neonicotinoids, other pesticides, or any additional substances. We provide untreated seeds to ensure that they are free of harmful chemicals, supporting healthy garden ecosystems and promoting pollinator safety. Our

Edible Flowers and Organic Seeds: What You Need to Know

When it comes to growing edible flowers such as pansies and violas for culinary use, many gardeners wonder whether they need to purchase organic seeds to ensure their safety for consumption. Here’s a guide to help you understand the key factors invol

How to Read a Seed Packet

Seed Packets by Gardeners for Gardeners. Every Botanical Interests seed packet is designed to help gardeners succeed. Featuring gorgeous botanical artists' renderings of each variety, each packet is like a mini-encyclopedia, full of information insid

How Many Seeds Are in a Packet?

Our seed packets are tailored to the specific type of seed, and they may be packaged either by weight or by seed count. This means that the packaging method is determined by the characteristics of the seed itself. All of our packages list this inform

Organic Seeds

When seeds are labeled as organic, it means they were produced using organic farming methods—methods that rely on organic inputs such as organic pesticides or fertilizers. This certification is especially important for farmers who need organic seeds

Seeds & Gluten / Celiac Disease

Our seeds are not processed as food products. They are intended for planting to grow food, not for direct consumption. Since we are not a food-processing facility, it is unlikely that our customers will be exposed to gluten. We do not grind grain or

Seeds & Pets

We care about your pets' safety in the garden. While we do not have a veterinarian on staff, we’ve partnered with Petco to produce a selection of pet-safe seeds and provide valuable information. Many plants considered pet-safe are food-producing, suc

What Does "Days to Maturity" Mean?

Days to maturity is a key piece of information on vegetable seed packets, identifying the approximate period from germination to when your produce will be ready for harvest. It’s important to remember that first you wait for the seeds to germinate, t

What Does Parthenocarpic Mean?

Parthenocarpic refers to a plant’s ability to produce fruit without the need for fertilization or pollination. These fruits develop without seeds and are often desirable in situations where pollinators are scarce or when seedless fruits are preferred

When Does Seed Change Over for the Following Year?

Starting in July of every year, we begin transitioning our seed inventory to packets that are packed for the following year. For example, as of July 2024, we are selling seed packets marked “Packed for 2025.”. This means that the seed inside is inten

Where Do You Source Your Seeds?

Our seeds are sourced from seed growers and companies located primarily in the United States and Europe. Additionally, we obtain some of our specialty seeds from Japan and Israel. Seed production requires specific growing conditions and climates, whi

Why Freezing Seeds at Home Is Not Recommended

Freezing seeds at home is often seen as a way to extend their shelf life, but I generally advise against it. Here's why:. In professional seed banks, such as the International Seed Bank, seeds are flash-frozen at temperatures as low as -20°C to -40°C

Pelleted Seeds and Seed Count Information

Pelleted Seeds:Some seeds are extremely tiny, making them difficult to handle and plant. To make this easier, we offer pelleted seeds for select varieties, including Clancy potato seeds, Trucas, Brentwood, Ezrilla lettuce, and Shock Wave Tie-Dye and