Comments regarding Botanical Interests, Inc.

I admit, when I first saw the seed racks at Armstrong Garden center with 3 or 4 brands to choose from, I was most attracted to Botanical Interests because of the pretty pictures on the packets. But after some experimenting, I found that their slightly higher prices were justified by the overall good quality and germination rates of the seeds inside. A bonus -- BI also boasts the best, most extensive growing instructions of any seed packets I've ever seen next to Renee's.

I grow mostly open pollinated and heirloom varieties of veggies and flowers. Botanical Interests is one of the few retail store brands that has a reasonable selection along with some hybrids. Some of the best successes I've had with BI seeds over the past four years have been: Mission Bells california poppies, Cutom Blend basil mix, various sweet peas, Cascadia peas and Jack Be Little pumpkins, all bought off the rack.

Hint: for a great kids' gift, get the book Roots Boots Buckets and Shoots by Lovejoy and package it in a gift basket along with pretty seed packets and colorful child's gardening tools. Botanical Interests has pretty seed packets for gift giving and many child-friendly varieties of flowers and veggies for this purpose.

For years I have bought their seeds locally and have been very satisfied.

The germination rate of every variety is tested. Moreover, every packet comes with an unconditional guarantee. I have experienced excellent results with their peppy seed. Their packaging merges art, gardening and science. As a professional artist, I appreciate their packet illustrations.

I bought Quinoa seeds--new to me, and a new product to them as well. They were very helpful and supportive in trying to grow this plant in winter in Northern California at about 200 feet elevation (it is usually a high-altitude spring crop). Very available via their 800 number for any questions not addressed in their very informative packages.

I bought seeds from Botanical Interests in an organic grocery store, and the germination has been excellent! The detailed information inside the packages is much more than what most companies put in, and it also includes info for growing in warm climates. The growing plants have been of excellent quality. I was quite impressed, especially after hearing so many sources say "don't buy seeds from a store rack". You can buy their seeds in retail outlets and online as well, however. I also sent them an email complimenting the seed/package quality, and received a VERY prompt and personalized thank you reply! I appreciate the wide variety of heirloom and open-pollinated seeds they offer.

I have purchased many packets of flower and vegetable seeds from this company. They always germinate well. They have extensive notes on culture and origin.