Seeds labeled GMO, short for genetically modified organism, are the result of one of the industry's most controversial applications. GMO seeds are not grown in a garden, but in a laboratory using modern biotechnology techniques such as gene splicing.

Scientists alter a seed's DNA to make the resulting plant produce the desired traits. Non-GMO seeds are grown by pollination. 

Non-GMO seeds can be grown in two different ways: hybrid seeds or open powder seeds. The term "hybrid" refers to a plant variety developed by the special, carefully controlled cross-pollination of two different parent plants to produce new traits that cannot be created by inbreeding of two of the same plants. Hybrid cultivars, also called F1 or "pro-child" hybrids, produce seeds that are not "type fit" meaning they do not conform to known characteristics of a particular plant variety.

Open-pollinated seeds, by contrast, are produced from random pollination by wind, birds, insects or other natural means. Gardeners who hide seeds from open-pollinated plants can keep the plants genetically pure by isolating them from the pollen of other plants. They then store seeds from these plants for growth the next season, making sure the seeds will have the same characteristics as the parent plant, or grow "appropriate to type."

Conventionally grown seeds come from plants that grow in fields even longer than food crops, and are likely to have had greater exposure to synthetic pesticides and fungicides to ensure their survival as seed producers. Organic seeds are produced without the use of synthetic pesticides and fungicides.

Do not hesitate to contact our expert team to get detailed information about GMO Free and NON GMO seed certification or to apply for certification.