As a vegetable gardener, I’ve always had an interest in not only trying and growing local or regional seed varieties, but also varieties that have their origin internationally. While this has primarily led me to oriental sources and varieties, I am ever excited to explore growing seeds from new regions as well. The Seeds From Italy seed company has been a great recent discovery.

Seeds From Italy is the exclusive U.S. mail-order distributor for Franchi Sementi, which is Italy’s oldest family-owned seed company. Founded in 1783, the company sells more than 400 varieties of heirloom Italian vegetable seeds, herb seeds, and flower seeds. From their catalog and website, “Our seeds are untreated, most are open-pollinated, and many are certified organic. We are members of the Safe Seed Initiative, which means we pledge to never knowingly buy or sell genetically modified seeds or plants.

Seeds From Italy’s catalog is another example of a well-designed and organized seed resource. Though the catalog is only a half-letter-size (5.5 in. by 8.5 in.), its 48 pages are filled with colorful and interesting vegetable, herb, and flower varieties. Franchi’s seed packets are big and beautiful, and the packets themselves serve as the primary color artwork throughout the catalog.

Beginning each section of the catalog is a full page photo of one of the listed varieties. For example, a close-up of one of their Zucchini varieties kicks off the vegetables. The seed listings are very clear to follow, with easy-to-read information, sizes and prices. At the midpoint of the catalog, they devote a page to their selections of vegetable soaps and gift cards. Following the vegetable listings are four pages each of herbs and flowers.

The artwork of the seed packets alone should prompt you to add this colorful catalog to your seed sources. More importantly, however, Seeds From Italy gives gardeners a wonderful opportunity to grow genuine Italian heirloom varieties. Viva Italia!

To request a copy or to order seeds, visit https://www.growitalian.com.

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