For gardeners, farmers, and plant enthusiasts looking to expand their seed collection, variety is king. This list covers the top 10 mail order seed companies ranked specifically by the number of seed varieties they offer. Whether you want heirloom vegetables, rare flowers, or exotic herbs, these companies provide the widest selections to suit diverse growing needs and preferences.
1. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek is renowned for its massive catalog of over 1,800 seed varieties, primarily focusing on rare and heirloom vegetables and flowers. Founded in 1998, this company sources seeds globally, many of which are not commonly found elsewhere. Their commitment to preserving genetic diversity makes them a favorite for gardeners seeking unique, historically rich varieties.
2. Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Johnny’s Selected Seeds offers more than 2,000 seed varieties, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, and cover crops. Their catalog is known for being comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on organic and sustainably grown seeds. Johnny’s also provides extensive growing information and tools, making it a go-to for serious growers and small-scale farmers.
3. Seed Savers Exchange
Seed Savers Exchange boasts a collection of around 2,100 varieties, specializing in heirloom and open-pollinated seeds. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving and sharing endangered seed varieties, making it a vital resource for biodiversity. Their seeds come with detailed histories, appealing to gardeners interested in heritage plants.
4. Territorial Seed Company
Territorial Seed Company offers roughly 1,700 varieties, with a focus on vegetables, herbs, and flowers suited to the Pacific Northwest but adaptable elsewhere. They provide a broad selection that includes organic and hybrid seeds, supported by detailed growing guides. Their regional expertise makes them valuable for gardeners in cooler climates.
5. High Mowing Organic Seeds
High Mowing Organic Seeds specializes in certified organic seeds, offering over 1,000 varieties. Their catalog covers vegetables, herbs, and flowers, with a strong emphasis on organic farming and sustainable practices. The company supports both home gardeners and commercial growers with high-quality, non-GMO seed stock.
6. Southern Exposure Seed Exchange
Southern Exposure Seed Exchange provides approximately 1,200 varieties, focusing on heirloom and open-pollinated seeds that perform well in Southern U.S. climates. They prioritize sustainable agriculture and seed saving, offering many unique varieties suited for warmer, humid environments. Their customer service and detailed planting guides are highly regarded.
7. Renee’s Garden Seeds
Renee’s Garden Seeds offers about 1,000 varieties, combining heirloom, hybrid, and organic seeds. Their catalog is known for beautiful packaging and clear, concise growing instructions, appealing to beginner and intermediate gardeners. They offer a strong selection of flowers, herbs, and vegetables, with an emphasis on flavor and garden performance.
8. Fedco Seeds
Fedco Seeds, a cooperative based in Maine, offers around 1,200 varieties, including vegetables, flowers, and cover crops. They focus on organic and open-pollinated seeds, with a catalog tailored to northern climates. Fedco’s cooperative model supports local farmers and sustainable agriculture, making it a community-oriented choice.
9. Adaptive Seeds
Adaptive Seeds specializes in over 1,000 varieties of organic, open-pollinated, and heirloom seeds, with a strong focus on plants suited to dry climates and small farms. They prioritize seeds that thrive in sustainable and organic systems, including many unusual and hard-to-find varieties. Their commitment to genetic diversity is evident in their carefully curated catalog.
10. Annie’s Heirloom Seeds
Annie’s Heirloom Seeds offers about 1,000 varieties, focusing exclusively on heirloom and open-pollinated seeds. They emphasize preserving seed heritage and provide detailed growing information to help gardeners succeed. Their seed collection includes many rare and historically significant varieties, ideal for gardeners interested in heritage plants.
How to Choose
When selecting a mail order seed company, variety count is important but not the only factor. Consider the type of seeds offered—heirloom, hybrid, organic, or open-pollinated—and whether they suit your climate and gardening goals. Look for companies that provide detailed growing instructions and reliable customer support. Also, check for seed quality, germination guarantees, and shipping reliability. If sustainability or preserving genetic diversity matters to you, prioritize companies with strong ethical commitments. Finally, budget and shipping costs may influence your choice, especially if ordering large quantities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are heirloom seeds better than hybrid seeds?
Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated and preserve genetic traits over generations, often prized for flavor and history. Hybrid seeds are crossbred for specific traits like disease resistance but do not breed true in subsequent generations.
Q: How long do seeds from these companies stay viable?
Seed viability varies by type, but most seeds remain viable for 2-5 years when stored properly in cool, dry conditions.
Q: Can I save seeds from plants grown from these seeds?
Yes, especially with heirloom and open-pollinated varieties. Hybrid seeds generally do not produce true-to-type offspring.
Q: Do these companies ship internationally?
Many seed companies ship internationally but check each company’s shipping policy and any import restrictions for your country.
Q: Are all seeds organic?
Not all; some companies specialize in organic seeds, while others offer a mix of conventional, organic, and hybrid varieties. Check product details for certification.
Q: How do I know if a seed variety is right for my climate?
Most companies provide zone recommendations and growing tips. Research your USDA hardiness zone and compare it with the seed descriptions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a mail order seed company with a large variety count opens up exciting possibilities for your garden or farm. Whether you prioritize heirloom preservation, organic certification, or regional adaptability, the companies listed here provide some of the widest selections available. By considering your specific growing conditions and goals alongside variety, you can find the perfect seed supplier to grow a thriving, diverse garden year after year.
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