Organic crops require robust varieties which are suitable for cultivation without the use of synthetic chemicals and which have been raised according to the principles of organic plant production. However, the vast majority of seeds used in organic production in Europe are based on varieties that were bred for the conventional sector. There are only a few varieties that were specifically bred for organic and low-input systems. Organic breeding leads to new organic cultivars or populations adapted explicitly to organic agriculture. Organic farmers need cultivars and populations that are well adapted to their specific agroecological conditions. Desired traits include water and nutrient use efficiency, good weed competition, as well as resistance to pests and diseases.

Seed production and plant breeding is a very specialised sector which requires a unique skill set. On this page discover and learn about seed production, plant breeding methods which maintain quality and health, as well as the economics, marketing and regulation of seeds.