Preserving Heritage Seeds through Curated Seasonal Garden Kits

Discover Rare Varieties and Cultivate Culinary Magic in Your Own Backyard!

Hey there, fellow gardeners and foodies! Have you ever taken a bite of a perfectly ripe tomato straight from your garden and thought, "Wow, this tastes like nothing I've ever had from the store?"


If you have, then you probably understand the magic of eating fresh produce straight from the garden. But what if I told you that you could not only enjoy that incredible flavor but also help preserve rare and endangered heritage plants while you're at it?


Join the movement to take back our health and our roots and reclaim our culinary and agricultural history. 


Well, get ready to dig in because Planted Places has some exciting news to share!

Planted Places Teams Up with Slow Food Ark of Taste

At Planted Places, we're all about connecting people with the joys of gardening and the goodness of fresh, organic produce. And now, we're taking it up a notch by partnering with Slow Food USA to bring you something truly special... Introducing our curated garden kits featuring heirloom seeds from the Ark of Taste!


We have sourced rare, indigenous seeds from the Slow Food Ark of Taste Seed Bank  to curate unique culinary garden kits! Discover delicious varieties that you can’t find at the grocery store OR the farmers markets.


At the same time, know that you are making a difference to bring back good, fair, and clean food that is being threatened by today’s large agricultural system.


So, what exactly does this mean for you? It means you can get your hands on some of the most unique and delicious seeds out there, carefully selected for their rich history, exceptional taste, and nutritional value.  


But we're not just handing you a bunch of seeds and wishing you good luck. We're growing these seeds into starter plants, making it easier than ever for you to kickstart your own garden adventure.

What Makes Ark of Taste Seeds Unique?

It’s about preserving our agricultural heritage.  

Why heirloom seeds? Unlike conventional hybrid seeds, which are bred for uniformity and shelf life (and to withstand pesticide spray - not kidding), heirloom seeds are open-pollinated varieties that have been passed down through generations. They're bursting with flavor, diversity, and character, making each bite a celebration of nature's bounty.


But it's not just about taste; it's also about preserving our agricultural heritage. You see, many of these heirloom plants are on the brink of extinction, threatened by the rise of industrial agriculture and the homogenization of our food supply. 


By growing them in our gardens, we're not only keeping these treasures alive but also contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of our planet's genetic wealth. 


EACH PURCHASE OF THE CURATED ARK OF TASTE GARDEN KITS CONTRIBUTES 10% OF PROCEEDS TO THE SLOW FOOD USA MOVEMENT.

Preserved seeds through the generations pass down the delicious taste.

Let's not forget about the health benefits of growing organic food in soil. When you nurture your plants in nutrient-rich soil free from harmful chemicals, you're not just feeding your body; you're nourishing your soul. Organic gardening promotes soil health, enhances flavor, and reduces your exposure to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a win-win for both you and the environment.


You don't need to be a seasoned gardener to reap the rewards. Our curated garden kits are designed for beginners and seasoned pros alike, with everything you need to get started on your own homegrown adventure. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a tiny balcony, these curate garden kits will find a home.

Explore Unique Bundles that Feature Ark of Taste Cookbook

Or Explore the Curated Seasonal Fruiting Plant Grow Kits

Take a closer look at some of the varieties we'll be growing in our curated garden kits, each with its own unique history:

Aunt Molly's Ground Cherry


Aunt Molly's Ground Cherry traces its roots back to Poland, where it has been cherished for generations. These sweet, golden fruits are encased in a papery husk, making them a delightful treat straight from the garden.


Aunt Ruby's German Green Tomato Seasonal Garden Kit


Heritage Story: Named after Ruby Arnold, who received the seeds from her mother-in-law in the late 1800s, Aunt Ruby's German Green Tomato is a true heirloom gem. With its vibrant green color and juicy flesh, this tomato is a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike.


Thelma Sanders Squash:


Thelma Sanders Squash is a beloved heirloom variety that dates back to the early 20th century. Named after the woman who preserved the seeds for over 50 years, this creamy, nutty squash is perfect for roasting, baking, or pureeing into soups and sauces.


Jimmy Nardello's Sweet Italian Frying Pepper:


Hailing from the Basilicata region of Italy, Jimmy Nardello's Sweet Italian Frying Pepper has been a staple in Italian-American gardens since the late 19th century. With its long, slender shape and sweet, fruity flavor, this pepper is perfect for sautéing, grilling, or stuffing.


Crane Melon


Originally cultivated by Japanese immigrant Sakata Farms in California in the early 20th century, the Crane Melon is a true American success story. This heirloom melon boasts a unique flavor profile, with hints of honeydew, cantaloupe, and cucumber.


Join us in sowing the seeds of heritage, one garden at a time. Let's cultivate a future where everyone has access to fresh, nutritious produce, and where the flavors of our past continue to thrive in the gardens of today.


TAKING ORDERS NOW - LIMITED SUPPLY! ALL ARK OF TASTE SEASONAL GROW KITS ARE SHIPPED STARTING IN APRIL!