Since its inception in 2004, High Mowing’s robust breeding and research program has invested resources in finding and breeding superior genetics exclusively in organic varieties so our growers can experience the best possible results when they grow with our seed. Breeding our own varieties for organics allows us to develop the specific qualities that organic growers require for their crops to thrive. High Mowing’s owner and founder, Tom Stearns, likes to say that “organic growers are using a dull tool when they plant seeds from conventional agriculture.” As a seed company, it is our job to find and breed the varieties that will perform reliably in a wide variety of conditions, and for us at High Mowing these are all organic conditions. Seed crops bred for organic production models thrive in organic production models. At High Mowing, we work exclusively under organic management, so any selections made in our breeding program are adapted to organic growing conditions.
Dr. Jodi Lew-Smith, High Mowing's Breeding and Research Director.
Dr. Jodi Lew-Smith joined the High Mowing breeding program in 2005, and since taking the helm has shepherded a range of successful projects to completion. Her work is responsible for strengthening our partnerships with university breeding programs and public breeders, as well as putting an emphasis on flavor in all of our variety selections. Flavor is always a priority for our breeding program. Our growers sell their food directly to customers who care about flavor more than anything else; and it is important to us, too. We believe a variety should look nice, but it must taste good. If we can't breed an acceptable yield or resistance into a variety that already has the flavor we desire, then we cross it to another gene pool and try again. Because we believe in the long-term value of open-pollinated genetics – which enables seed saving and regional adaptability – wherever possible, we choose to breed open-pollinated varieties. There are times, however, when only a hybrid will have the combined traits identified within a project’s goals. Thus, we work in both types of genetics in order to find the best fit for the project, and for the farmers, chefs, and consumers it will serve. We specialize in breeding pepper, tomato, winter squash and summer squash varieties.
This time of year, Jodi and her assistant breeding specialist, Katie Weller, are busy working with their in-progress projects that require cross pollination.  Because cross pollination demands some exacting dexterity, it takes time to perform them with accuracy. Every cross pollination must also be carefully recorded, so as to be able to work off of improved genetics every season. Over the course of a growing season, Jodi and Katie cross pollinate and select for over a dozen different projects, each with a unique end-goal in mind.
Katie cleans the seed of a parent line for a hybrid squash variety.
Breeding projects vary in their length from start-to-finish based on whether they are seeking a hybrid or an open-pollinated variety, but most breeding initiatives take at least five years to complete, and often more. Some open-pollinated projects take 20+ years to complete. Occasionally, a project will be so long in the making without successful genetic breakthroughs that it will have to be abandoned. Imagine starting work on a project that you knew couldn’t be finished in less than five years – that’s longer than the required classroom time to receive a high school diploma! The steadfast dedication and motivation required by breeding teams is exemplary, and High Mowing’s is no exception. We are grateful to have the resources and driven team members to make breeding for organics a part of the High Mowing philosophy. Stay tuned for a follow-up piece right here on the High Mowing blog, in which we take a look at the results of the breeding team’s work.