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Heritage and traditional varieties: why crop diversity matters
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Heritage and traditional varieties have developed over long periods through selection, continued propagation and passing on of seed. This article explores their origins and shows how closely crop diversity is connected with cultural history, regional knowledge and the development of our cultivated plants. The focus is on open-pollinated varieties, their adaptation to different growing conditions and their importance as a genetic resource. It also explains why the diversity of agricultural crops is declining and what consequences increasing uniformity may have for agriculture and food production. In addition, the article examines the role of gene banks, active cultivation and seed sharing in preserving varieties. This provides a comprehensive overview of why heritage and traditional varieties are not only a cultural heritage worth preserving, but also remain important for diverse and adaptable agriculture.
Discover traditional diversity
Plants that carry stories
