Sales linked to organic home gardening are up

Seeds of Change, which markets itself as the largest exclusively organic seed brand in the country, reports that its sales growth of 52% year over year can be attributed to a rise in eco-conscious consumers who are planting not just for their own health, but for that of a healthier environment.

In a recent consumer survey, Seeds of Change found that 60% of gardeners say they are choosing organic seeds and organic gardening practices because it is better for the environment.

“With eco-conscious consumers looking to do their part, many are turning to organic gardening not only for the quality of food it provides, but the positive impacts on the environment,” Dave Thompson, general manager, said in a news release. “It’s really exciting for gardeners to see how something right in our backyards can have much farther-reaching implications.”

From seed to table

Sixty-one percent of organic gardeners said they elect to garden to control their food source, according to research by the brand. Some of the most popular seeds sold by Seeds of Change are also those commonly found on the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen. Lettuce, kale, spinach, peppers and tomatoes, all found on the list, can be easily grown at home starting with organic seeds and managed without pesticides, better for those who eat the final product and the environment overall.

“Reconnecting with our food, having a real role in how it is grown and cultivated, brings us so much closer to the source,” Thompson said. “The quality of homegrown produce cannot be matched, and over the course of the summer you can plant your favorite seeds for the tastiest and freshest salads or grilled vegetables.”

A more intimate gardening experience

Pest control is always a challenge for any gardener, but for organic gardening, eschewing pesticides can lead to a more intimate gardening experience. “Picking off pests of course is a labor of love, but that up close and hands-on time in the garden is what so many organic gardeners love,” Thompson said.

To help rid a garden of pests without chemicals, best practices include committing to routine weed control to prevent them from taking valuable nutrients from the plants, incorporating beneficial garden bugs like ladybugs, praying mantises and lacewings, which will eat many harmful pests and using mesh row covers over tender young seedlings to provide a barrier against pests.

Photo: Seeds of Change