Genetic engineering

No genetically modified seed varieties are used in our ranges. We can assure you that as a matter of principle, we only offer varieties from traditional cultivation. Our BIO seeds in particular are subject to very stringent criteria. To our knowledge, only forage maize and soya from genetically modified stocks may be marketed on the German seed market for agricultural use. These seeds are not however marketed in the “normal” food trade or in garden centres. 

F1 hybrids

“F1 hybrids” appears on many seed packets. This is a term from the genetic theory of Gregor Mendel and means the first filial generation "Filial 1". The principle is made clear by the following example in which the characteristics are inherited “intermediately”. If a homozygous, red flowering plant is crossed with a homozygous white flowering plant, one will exclusively obtain offspring with pink blossoms. What does this mean however for the amateur gardener?

It is only when the genetic material of the “mother” and “father” has very specific characteristics that success is guaranteed. The F1 hybrids resulting from crossing both parents all uniformly show the desired characteristics. The seeds of the F1 hybrids are usually considerably more expensive than normal seeds. This results from the laborious and time-consuming selection cultivation that is required in order to obtain suitable parents. Propagating and obtaining the seeds is also more elaborate, since it must be ensured that exclusively the selected parents reproduce. 

Much to the joy of amateur gardeners, F1 hybrids are usually more resistant, more prolific, promise a richer harvest or more impressive blooms. Even these high performance plants must however be adequately supplied with water and nutrients in the garden. Otherwise, the yield would not significantly differ from the “normal” varieties. 

A further pollination occurs before seeds emerge. The genetic material is recombined with that of the partner plant. This is something anyone must known who wishes to obtain their own seeds. The advantageous properties of the F1 plants may no longer be as marked as early as in the F2 generation.