Is there a Law that hybrid plants have to be stated as such in there description when selling.?

Question

I am trying to start planting several cherry bushes, blueberrys, and vegitables. I want to be able to save my seeds and replant them, but I dont' know how to make sure the plants I'm buying are not hybrid so that I can do that. I noticed in some of the plant catalogs the description states Hybrid. Is there a law that hybrid plants have to be stated in the description. Thanks jada

Answer 1

No law but I doubt you will buy hybrid seeds that are not labeled. They want you to know they are hybrids for a couple of reasons. One of which is to justify the higher price. Notice that many open pollinated seeds will be the same price per pack but fewer seeds.
As for the cherries, sweet cherries are all actually hybrid since it takes two varieties for pollination. Blueberries are too difficult to grow from seed if you ask me. Also vegatables labeled heirloom are open pollinated.
I would just buy the bushes, they live for years anyway. Seed savers exchange has many open pollinated varities as do most seed catalogs. Check out those that carry heirlooms to be sure.

Answer 2

No. There are rules that say that the plant must be labeled. I cannot find the link at the moment but I do know the east coast has differing requirements than the west coast. You will see the term "hybrid" a lot more in the future as the big growers/hybridizers do not want others to know their secrets and, therefore, do not list the parent plants any longer. It is very, very frustrating.

I also have issues with one grower in particular which takes a regular plant that is not a hybrid or anything and they tack their own name to it. I mean how confusing is that?!?!

It's just getting more and more confusing for everyone with all the patents and trademarking out there. I do understand the need for it but it's wayyyyyyyyy tooooooo confusing.

Answer 3

No there is no law stating that.