Abstract:

Local varieties often cope better with drought and other stresses, and outperform modern varieties when grown under ecological conditions. Collect traditional varieties by visiting seed savers in their homes, or while attending seed festivals and farmer training events. Seed savers and seed producers select the varieties they like most. These are then grown in separate plots from which community members can select the 2 or 3 cultivars or varieties they like most. On this basis decide how much seed to grow for distribution and sales.