If you’re a gardener looking for the widest possible range of seeds to grow everything from rare heirloom vegetables to exotic flowers, this list covers the top mail order seed companies known for their vast variety selection. Whether you’re a home gardener, a small-scale farmer, or a plant collector, these companies offer extensive catalogs that cater to every climate and preference.
1. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek is renowned for its massive collection of heirloom seeds, boasting over 1,800 varieties from around the world. Their catalog includes rare and unusual vegetables, flowers, and herbs that are often difficult to find elsewhere. The company emphasizes open-pollinated and non-GMO seeds, making it a favorite among organic gardeners and seed savers.
2. Seed Savers Exchange
Seed Savers Exchange focuses on preserving heirloom varieties and offers one of the largest selections of open-pollinated seeds in North America, with more than 1,700 varieties. Their seed bank supports biodiversity, and the company encourages gardeners to grow and share rare seeds. Their catalog includes vegetables, flowers, and fruits, with a strong emphasis on heritage and regional varieties.
3. Johnny’s Selected Seeds
Johnny’s Selected Seeds provides a broad range of seeds with a strong reputation for quality and reliability, offering over 2,000 vegetable, herb, and flower varieties. They cater to both home gardeners and commercial growers, with detailed growing information and trial data for many varieties. Their commitment to sustainable practices and organic options adds to their appeal.
4. Territorial Seed Company
Territorial Seed Company specializes in seeds suited for the Pacific Northwest but offers a wide variety of over 1,200 vegetable, flower, and herb seeds adaptable to many climates. Their catalog features unique heirlooms, hybrids, and organic seeds, with extensive growing guides and customer support. They are known for high germination rates and excellent customer service.
5. High Mowing Organic Seeds
High Mowing Organic Seeds offers over 600 varieties of 100% certified organic seeds, focusing on vegetables, herbs, and flowers suitable for organic growers. Their extensive catalog includes many rare and hard-to-find varieties, supporting organic farming and home gardening alike. They are committed to non-GMO seed production and sustainable farming practices.
6. Renee’s Garden Seeds
Renee’s Garden Seeds features a carefully curated selection of over 500 varieties, including many rare and specialty vegetables and flowers. Their seed collections are known for exceptional germination and detailed cultural information, making them perfect for gardeners seeking reliable results. They also offer unique international varieties and heirlooms suited for diverse climates.
7. Southern Exposure Seed Exchange
Southern Exposure Seed Exchange focuses on heirloom and open-pollinated seeds adapted to the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast U.S., with over 700 varieties. They prioritize sustainable agriculture and seed saving, offering rare regional varieties and organic options. Their catalog includes vegetables, flowers, and herbs suited for warm and humid climates.
8. Park Seed
Park Seed has been a trusted name since 1868, offering a broad catalog of over 1,000 seed varieties including vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Their extensive selection caters to both beginner and advanced gardeners with a mix of heirloom and hybrid seeds. Known for prompt shipping and quality assurance, Park Seed also provides educational resources for growers.
9. Fedco Seeds
Fedco Seeds is a cooperative seed company offering over 1,000 varieties with an emphasis on organic and open-pollinated seeds. Located in Maine, they specialize in seeds adapted to northern climates but carry a wide range for diverse growing zones. Fedco is praised for affordable prices, reliable seeds, and a strong commitment to sustainable farming.
10. Adaptive Seeds
Adaptive Seeds focuses on organic, open-pollinated, and heirloom seeds, offering around 400 varieties with a strong emphasis on flavor and adaptability. Their catalog includes many unique and regionally adapted varieties, especially for West Coast gardeners. They work closely with small-scale farmers and gardeners to promote seed diversity and resilience.
How to Choose
When selecting a mail order seed company, consider your climate zone and the company’s specialization in seeds suited for it. Look for seed purity, germination guarantees, and the availability of organic or heirloom varieties if those are important to you. Catalog depth matters—do you want rare, exotic varieties or a solid selection of reliable staples? Also, factor in customer service, shipping policies, and educational resources, which can be invaluable for novice gardeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are heirloom seeds better than hybrid seeds?
Heirloom seeds are open-pollinated and can be saved and replanted with consistent traits, while hybrids are bred for specific traits but often don’t breed true. Heirlooms offer genetic diversity and unique flavors, but hybrids may provide disease resistance and higher yields.
Q: Can I save seeds from mail order plants?
Yes, especially if the seeds are open-pollinated or heirloom. Hybrid seeds generally don’t produce true-to-type plants when saved. Check the seed type before planning to save seeds.
Q: How long do seeds last in storage?
Most seeds remain viable for 1-5 years if stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Some, like onions and parsnips, have shorter viability, while beans and peas can last longer.
Q: Are organic seeds always non-GMO?
Yes, organic certification requires that seeds are non-GMO. However, not all non-GMO seeds are certified organic.
Q: Do mail order seed companies ship internationally?
Many do, but shipping policies vary widely due to customs and agricultural regulations. Always check the company’s shipping information before ordering internationally.
Q: What is the difference between open-pollinated and heirloom seeds?
Open-pollinated seeds are pollinated naturally and breed true, while heirloom seeds are a subset of open-pollinated seeds that have been passed down for at least 50 years and often have historical or cultural significance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mail order seed company depends on your gardening goals, climate, and preferences for heirloom, hybrid, or organic seeds. The companies listed here offer some of the largest and most diverse selections available, making it easier for gardeners to find exactly what they need. By selecting reputable sources with strong germination guarantees and a commitment to seed diversity, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving and unique garden.
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