From Soil to Seed Unlocking the Secrets of Nutrient Dense Gardening with Julia Dakin

Genetics, microbes, and plant stress can greatly impact the nutrient density and flavor of your garden produce. This session offers a deep dive into how gardeners can leverage genetic diversity and soil-microbe interactions to cultivate crops that are not only healthier and tastier but also more resilient. Attendees will gain both the knowledge and the inspiration to apply these concepts in their gardens, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more sustainable approach to food cultivation.

About the speaker: A lifelong farmer, Julia Dakin developed a passion for growing nutrient-dense crops after losing her father to cancer and reading that, in our lifetimes, one out of every three people will be diagnosed with the disease. She is co-founder of Going to Seed, through which she collaborates closely with Joseph Lofthouse, landrace plant breeder and teacher. Julia lives in Mendocino County, Northern California, where she applies and shares her knowledge to foster healthier, sustainable food systems through the power of seed diversity and nutrient-rich crops.

Originally recorded July 12, 2024 for the Seed Savers Exchange virtual conference.

Thank to our 2024 conference sponsors: Rancho Gordo, UNFI, Decorah Chamber of Commerce, Mountain Rose Herbs, Streamworks, Anson Mills, Lucuma Designs, and Chelsea Green Publishing.