Choosing where to buy seeds is one of a new gardener’s first big decisions. We’ve updated our annual list of favorite seed companies—based on personal experience, germination rates, selection, service, and values. Most now offer online catalogs (saving trees and speeding orders), but you can still request print versions. Order early for spring planting!
Our Top 12 Seed Suppliers
- Park Seed — Excellent flower, vegetable, and herb selection; generous packet sizes; fresh seed with high germination; fast shipping. Also offers live plants.
- Burpee Seeds — Iconic colorful catalog; outstanding vegetable varieties; new introductions each year are industry benchmarks.
- Thompson & Morgan — UK-based but ships to US; the go-to for rare, unusual, and collector-grade seeds.
- Johnny’s Selected Seeds — Employee-owned; extensive catalog plus superb growing guides and tools. A pro favorite.
- Pinetree Garden Seeds — Smaller packets at lower prices—perfect for home gardeners who don’t need 500 seeds. Good selection, fast service.
- Renee’s Garden Seeds — Curated organic and heirloom varieties with detailed growing info; founded by Renee Shepherd, a pioneer in specialty seeds.
- Select Seeds — Specializes in antique and heirloom flowers—varieties your great-grandmother grew.
- Seed Savers Exchange — Nonprofit preserving heirloom and open-pollinated seeds. Free catalog, educational resources, online garden planner (30-day free trial). A mission-driven treasure.
- Seeds of Change — 100% certified organic vegetable, herb, and flower seeds.
- Cook’s Garden — Gourmet vegetable varieties with exceptional flavor and color; beautiful catalog.
- Nichols Garden Nursery — Family-owned; no GMOs; specializes in rare seeds, herbs, and culinary gardening. Stellar reputation.
- Bountiful Gardens — From Ecology Action (nonprofit teaching sustainable agriculture). All seed heirloom, non-GMO, certified organic; catalog packed with growing tips.
Recommended Live Plant Sources
- Bluestone Perennials — Consistently high-quality, affordable perennials and shrubs; great internet specials.
- White Flower Farm — Premium plants, fair prices, partnerships with Family Circle and BHG.
- Wayside Gardens — Cutting-edge varieties and top-tier quality; higher prices reflect rarity and excellence.
Request catalogs or browse online today—spring will be here before you know it!
