Seed and Plant Breeding for Wisconsin’s Organic Vegetable Sector: Understanding Farmers’ Needs

Abstract

Plant breeding and seed issues are of growing importance in organic farming, but more regionally specific information is needed. In 2012, we surveyed Wisconsin organic vegetable growers regarding: a) general characteristics and farm practices; b) challenges in accessing organic seed; c) plant breeding priorities; and d) improving access to appropriate plant breeding and seed systems. Results suggest that growers had more difficulty accessing satisfactory genetics than seed quality, and that seed access was more problematic for growers with larger farming operations. Diverse plant breeding priorities, combined with prevalent variety trialing and seed saving, suggest a good fit with participatory plant breeding.