Where whimsy, art and heirloom seeds grow together...
Illustrator & Author Rebecca Stouffer
I am an aspiring farmgirl at heart. A farmgirl who loves to grow and preserve heirloom seeds from vegetables, herbs and flowers. I am also an Artist and I've recently combined my watercolor illustrations into the packaging of my collection of vintage seeds. Inspiration comes through the flowers, vegetables, seeds, bees and incredible natural surroundings of northern Minnesota. The year 2013 brought my certification as a Master Herbalist and the realization that herbs contain a wealth of benefits. More and more of the homestead acreage is being planted with a diversity of heirloom plants, which makes wonderful habitat for natural pollinators. Honeybees may be coming soon... The greenhouse made from recycled windows has finally taken shape and is ready and waiting for Spring planting. Step by step the goal is to become self-sustaining by using what technology is necessary, but while traveling back to an era that was run by simpler times. A delicate balance, yes, but a goal to strive toward...one day at a time.
About me
What's behind Wild Green Onion?
It started back in the year 2002, when I saved my first Purple Opal Basil seeds from a potted plant. I was struck with the utter miracle of it all... A tiny seed. Four seeds. I was hooked. I then started to research the world of heirloom seeds. Seed Savers Exchange in Iowa was a huge source and influence. Over the years, I researched and tested different varieties of vegetables and flowers that would grow well in Zone 3, where we basically have 3 months of growing season.
My mother shared her vast knowledge as well as her perennial flowers with me and I started growing the old varieties that grew when my grandmother was a girl. Flowers with names like, "Kiss-Me-and-I'll Tell You", "Love Lies Bleeding" and "Only the Lonely"... I've always loved "old things". I was struck with the need to preserve our seed heritage, knowing that some could eventually be lost forever. With the huge seed conglomerates buying up all the old seed companies and pushing for hybridization & genetic engineering, it made me more determined to pursue this course. Everything starts with the seed! The nutritional value. The ability to save seed (open-pollinated). The killing of natural pollinators through the use of treating seeds with herbicides & fungicides. The list goes on. Heirloom seeds are part of who we are. Our food supply, health and food freedom depend on saving these.
Recently, I decided to promote the world of heirloom seed preservation by using my watercolor illustrations in the packaging of seeds that I collect. I had wanted to make these available for sale; however, due to extreme legal jumbo & labeling requirements, I've been forced to make the decision not to do this. But, perhaps in the near future, I can share the knowledge that I've gained over the years. And, I will always be a strong promoter of open-pollinated seeds. Seed Freedom. I want this passion to become real in the lives of children and adults alike. To grow your own food is the way God intended it. I reflect on the Garden of Eden. Gardening should be as natural as breathing. We need to get back to our roots. Common sense.
So, in order to spread this creed, my illustrations are used to promote the saving of natural pollinators, the beauty of heirlooms and the fun of heritage breed animals & poultry. My hope, ultimately, is that by viewing my website you will be inspired in one way or another.