New Seed Varieties Bloom as Companies Unveil 2024 Planting Innovations
Seed companies are rolling out new products for the upcoming growing season. From heirloom tomatoes to disease-resistant zucchini, the latest catalogues feature fresh varieties for gardeners. Some of these businesses have been supplying seeds for over a century, blending tradition with innovation.
Rohrer Seeds, which has printed catalogues for more than 100 years, is introducing two new options: Fortress Zucchini and Frilly and Crispy Lettuce Mix. The company's long history reflects its steady role in the seed market.
Burpee, founded in 1876, is adding the 10-inch Kindergarten Sunflower and Old Glory Mix Petunia to its lineup. Their offerings remain popular with both amateur and experienced gardeners.
Turtle Tree Seeds, linked to Camphill Village U.S.A., now stocks over 380 seed types. New arrivals include Howden Pumpkin and Mezdi Super Sweet Corn, expanding choices for home growers.
Johnny's Selected Seeds, established in 1973, bases its catalogue on trials at Johnny's Research Farm. Their selections are tested for performance before reaching customers.
Seed Savers Exchange, launched in 1975, specialises in heirloom seeds. This year, they are offering the Peg O' My Heart beefsteak tomato, a variety prized for its flavour and size.
Meanwhile, global firms like Syngenta, Bayer Crop Science, and Corteva run research stations across Europe. These facilities—such as Syngenta's Swiss sites and Bayer's centres in Germany and France—conduct field trials to develop seeds suited to local climates and market needs. Their work ensures crops perform well in different regions.
The new seed releases come from companies with decades of experience. Some focus on heirloom varieties, while others prioritise disease resistance or regional adaptation. Gardeners now have more options to choose from for the 2024 planting season.
