I think with store-bought seed saving, it just depends on the fruit/veg. I’d imagine your friend is right about corn, since most of it is so messed with these days. As for others like squashes and stuff, try to save seeds from organic products, as they’ll be much more likely to grow.

For my soil, I try to garden ‘veganically’, which means I won’t buy most fertilizers and soil amendments because they’re pretty much entirely animal-derived. I do use my own chicken’s poop and I compost. I mulch each autumn which helps. Throughout the planting season I fertilize (infrequently, unfortunately) with a seaweed-based product.

I should write an article on this . . .

@ Jackie – I have not yet gotten a ‘compost start’, but I’ve heard so many delightful stories about them. I hope I’ll see one some day. =)

Good luck with all the new growing!

@ Sleepybird – That’s a great point, I hadn’t even thought about it like that, ha!

@ Kathleen – Oh, I don’t think that’s true . . . I sure hope not! Whoops! =D

@ Jenny B. – Yay! Do it!

@ Janine – Yes, I’ve had lemon cucumbers! They are similar and I’m sure they’re really closely related. I think lemon cucumbers are so adorable.

@ Kathryn – I know, so cute right?! And King Corn is high n my list of docs to watch.

@ Nathan – I think squashes and gourds are pretty common culprits as well. It’s like a lucky score, why would anyone want to avoid that!?

@ amanda – Aw, thanks lady! I’m just trying to have a good time. =)

Janine – I LOVE lemon cucumbers, but they aren’t quite as spiney as what Sayward grew. They have what I like to call “nubs” on them. LOL. So good…seriously!