Heirloom vegetables are a link to the past. Seeds for these varieties were passed down from generation to generation and have history. They were so loved that some immigrants smuggled seeds into their new countries in the lining and hems of their clothing or hidden in their valuables. These settlers wanted to preserve the flavors of home in their new worlds. Many varieties had been grown for many generations, in some cases hundreds of years, and with good reason. These varieties were proven, they had the best flavors and characteristics and a were capable of reproducing themselves year after year with the same results.
Whenever possible we try to share the amazing stories of where these plants came from. Mortgage Lifter tomatoes were bred by Marshall Cletis Byles, more commonly known as Radiator Charlie, to feed the family and pay off the house. Brandywine Tomatoes are named after a river in the area it was first grown in. These are just two of the stories behind the plants in our collection.
The Chef Jeff Heirloom collection contains a carefully curated selections of the best heirloom varieties from around the world. These varieties have had generations of success in our grandparent’s gardens and are available for your garden. |
