That’s How to Keep Monsanto OUT of Your Garden

Earth Month – Day 16

Home Garden in Pasadena (Photo -Staff).

You may be helping Monsanto without you knowing when you buy some organic seeds.

Most home gardeners don’t realize that corporate behemoth and GMO titan Monsanto has been gobbling up the seed market faster than a caterpillar can munch a tomato plant!

Facts:

• Monsanto grabbed approximately 40% of the US vegetable seed market with its acquisition of Seminis.
• Monsanto now apparently owns the trademark for many of the names of the heirloom seed varieties themselves!

Problem:

– It means that even if you buy organic seeds from a completely independent company some of your purchase might be supporting the bad guys!

– How do home gardeners know where to purchase their seeds so they aren’t inadvertently doing business with companies that maintain a working relationship with Monsanto-Seminis or were acquired by them?

Solution:

1- Avoid buying from seed companies affiliated with Monsanto

Check by location (click under “Where to Buy” and select your location for a list of dealers to avoid).

2- Buy from companies not affiliated or do not do business with Seminis

The graphic to the right indicates numerous companies that are worthy of your patronage as compiled by the International Seed Saving Institute.*
* The list may not be complete. If your seed company does not appear, be sure to clarify with the owner about any potential affiliation with Monsanto-Seminis before buying from them.

3- Avoid buying heirloom varieties for which Monsanto owns the trademark

Here’s the list.

4- Ask seed companies if they have taken the Safe Seed Pledge

Here’s a list of companies that have done so.

This article first appeared on thehealthyhomeeconomist.com by Sarah. The content has been edited for length and clarity.