Protect old varieties: VERN e.V. needs your voice in the competition!

Protect old varieties: VERN e.V. needs your voice in the competition!

In today's agricultural world, preserving ancient plant varieties is more important than ever. The VERN e. V., based in Greiffenberg near Angermünde, is passionately committed to this and preserves over 2,000 endangered crop varieties. Founded in 1996, the association's goal is to preserve the diversity of cultivated plants and to make old and rare varieties available again. This work is not only admirable, but also urgently needed, because ancient crops are often overshadowed by modern, uniform varieties.

But that's not all - the association organizes regular educational offerings, including workshops and field days, which deal in particular with the topics of sustainability and organic farming. An exciting project that has currently been launched is called “Resilience through Diversity” and is investigating climate-resistant vegetable varieties up to the year 2027. The test results are incorporated into variety descriptions and cultivation recommendations so that future generations can also benefit from nature’s treasures.

Participation in the “Brandenburg works” competition

The VERN e. V. is currently taking part in the “Brandenburg Works” competition, which aims to honor socially committed companies in Brandenburg. Citizens can cast their votes until November 30, 2025, and every vote counts! Around 78 applicants from various industries are available for selection in this public vote. The club hopes to achieve an award in this competition with its dedicated work, which has spanned almost 30 years.

The role of VERN e. However, V. extends beyond competition. The association not only functions as a seed initiative, but is also heavily involved in conservation breeding and seed propagation of old varieties. In addition, knowledge about seed production, cultivation and use is preserved, and the cultural and breeding-historical significance of crops is not left behind.

Commitment to the future

Collaboration with partners from practice and science is important for VERN e. V. of great importance. The show and propagation garden in Greiffenberg, Uckermark, also offers a practical platform to present around 1,200 vegetable and crop origins as well as 650 grain origins. With the annual seed catalog, the so-called Compendium, members and interested parties receive access to seeds and planting material from their own propagation.

The initiatives and tireless commitment of VERN e. V. have already borne fruit. In 2015, the club was awarded in the “natural. sustainable. We in Brandenburg” competition. All of this shows how important it is to safeguard the diversity of nature while supporting local agriculture.

For gardeners and farmers who are looking for special varieties, VERN e. V. the possibility of preserving old varieties as plants or seeds. The association's offerings contribute to regional value creation and increase awareness of the importance of biological diversity in agriculture.

If you want to know more about the exciting projects and the possibilities of VERN e. V. If you would like to find out more, you can find out more directly on the association's website: Vern Shop.