Heirloom

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Heirloom

Heirloom (/ˈɛərˌluːm/) is a term often used in the context of plants, particularly fruits, vegetables, and flowers, to refer to old cultivars that have been maintained by gardeners and farmers, particularly in isolated or ethnic minority communities of the Western world. These are often passed down from generation to generation, hence the term 'heirloom'.

Etymology

The term 'heirloom' comes from the old English words 'heir' and 'loom', which literally means 'a tool or article passed down from generation to generation'. It was first used in this context in the early 20th century.

Related Terms

  • Cultivar: A plant variety that has been produced in cultivation by selective breeding.
  • Genetic diversity: The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.
  • Seed saving: The practice of saving seeds or other reproductive material from vegetables, grain, herbs, and flowers for use from year to year for annuals and nuts, tree fruits, and berries for perennials and trees.
  • Open-pollinated: Refers to plants that are pollinated by insects, birds, wind, or other natural mechanisms.

See Also

External links

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