Driftless Seed Supply
Preserve and promote regional plant diversity with seeds from Driftless Seed Supply.
A New Seed Company Is Born
Started in 2023 by Cody Egan and Dylan Bruce, Driftless Seed Supply (DSS) is the newest seed supplier at the Viroqua Food Co+op. Their goal is to provide transparency, support regional seed producers, and build a more resilient local food system by offering varieties tailored specifically to the needs of Midwest farmers and gardeners. Cody's experience managing commercial catalog production at Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah, Iowa, combined with Dylan and his wife, Skye's experience running and saving their own seeds at Circadian Organics Farm in Ferryville, WI provides a depth of knowledge for their company's success.
Promoting Biodiversity
Since the early 1900's the world has lost 75% of its agricultural diversity. In the past, local seed distributors were common, and farmers often saved their own seeds. By the late 1990's, around 10 major seed companies dominated the market, a number that continued to shrink through mergers and acquisitions. By the mid-2010's, consolidation had reduced this to six major firms. Today, the global seed market is controlled by just three major companies - Bayer, Corteva, and Syngenta - with only one, Corteva, headquartered in the United States. These companies focus on large-scale production and often drop varieties that are suited to niche market regions or climates. This loss of diversity impacts our ability to adapt to climate change or shifting consumer needs.
Preserving biodiversity is crucial, as diverse crops are vital for resilience in uncertain times. For example, crops may perform better in certain areas, and when one variety fails, others might thrive. Additionally, while organic seed standards exist, many organic farmers still use conventional seeds due to limited availability. This gap in the market reflects broader issues with the seed industry’s focus on profit rather than long-term sustainability. More regulation and a shift toward organic breeding could help restore balance and ensure more diverse, resilient crops for the future.
Sustainable & Organic Practices
DSS grows 70% of their own seed and collaborates with a network of 35 other small Midwest farms to grow another 25%, and they buy and resell approximately another 5% for hybrid or patented varieties when it is the best option for Midwest gardeners. They are committed to promoting soil health, using reduced tillage practices like cover cropping or mulching in place of cultivation, and using crimped rye instead of plastic for weed barriers. The seed they grow is certified organic.
Advice For Beginner Gardeners
Dylan suggests that beginner gardeners start by choosing seed varieties that they can directly sow into their garden like cucumbers, beans and melons. Patience is key. Wait for the right soil temperature and follow the advice written on each packet for when and how to start each variety of seed. Avoid planting squash, tomatoes, and peppers before early June to ensure they thrive. When starting seeds indoors, ensure they get enough light. Windowsills often aren’t light enough, so consider a grow light. Use good organic potting soil, like Rainbow or Purple Cow, both sold at the co-op. Be patient with germination; some seeds, like parsley, take up to three weeks. Water carefully - soil should be moist but not soggy.
Local Seed and Resources for Seed Lovers
Driftless Seed Supply knows where their seeds come from, and they want to connect you to the growers, too. That's why every packet of seeds has a QR code that lets users trace the seed's origin, grower, and whether it's certified organic. It's information like this that helps to build a transparent and more resilient food system. Local seed growers learn which seeds are best suited for our unique local climate and soils.
To learn more, Dylan recommends some great resources, including articles from Seed Savers Exchange, the podcast Seeds and Their People, and the book The Seed Garden, which is a great guide to seed saving.
A Case for Gardening
Gardening is about more than feeding your family - it's an opportunity to try new varieties and find joy in the process. DSS believes that gardening is also a creative exploration, so don't be afraid to try something new each season. When you start to plan your garden, local seeds are an investment in your garden's success. Even if it seems like a lot of money for a few seeds, the return on your investment is clear. For example, a small number of heirloom tomato plants can produce dozens of fruits. When you garden, whether in a patio pot or on a three-acre plot, for a hobby or serious food production, using locally sourced seed can build deeper connections and make the experience more rewarding.
What’s next for DSS?
As their company grows, DSS is excited to offer more varieties. They currently have 220, with 140 available wholesale. They plan to add about 70 new varieties each year, including some of their own breeds. This summer, they are also working on a display and trial garden for visitors! The next time you are at the co-op, check out the bright and friendly Driftless Seed Supply packets. Your support helps to foster a local seed supply right here in the Driftless Region. Happy planting!
