How We Grow Non-GMO Herb Plants
Responsible Growing Starts in the Greenhouse
Long before “Non-GMO” became a marketing phrase, The Growers Exchange was focused on growing healthy herbs using responsible, practical methods. We do not grow or sell genetically modified plants, and we do not use neonicotinoids in our growing process. Every crop is inspected, watered, pinched, and tended by our greenhouse team throughout the growing season.
What Non‑GMO Means for Your Herb Plants
No Genetically Modified Plants
We do not grow or sell genetically modified plants. Our herbs begin with non-GMO seed or plant material selected for healthy, true-to-type growth.
No Neonicotinoids
We do not use—and have never used—neonicotinoids in our growing process. This helps us protect the herbs in our care along with the bees and other pollinators that visit them.
Hybrid Herbs Can Still Be Non‑GMO
Hybrid and genetically modified do not mean the same thing.
Hybrid plants result when two compatible varieties cross—either naturally through pollination or intentionally through plant breeding. Genetic modification is different: it changes a plant’s genetic material using laboratory biotechnology. Some of our herbs are hybrids selected for qualities such as flavor, vigor, or disease resistance, but they are not genetically engineered.
What Open-Pollinated Means
Seed-Grown Herbs with a History
Many of our seed-grown herbs are open-pollinated varieties. Their flowers are pollinated naturally by wind and beneficial insects, and when varieties remain properly isolated, saved seed can often reproduce the characteristics gardeners value. We also save seed from selected greenhouse plants when experience shows that our own stock produces stronger or more reliable germination.
Non‑GMO Growing Practices
We are not USDA Certified Organic—and we do not pretend otherwise. Our commitment is to responsible, practical greenhouse growing. We begin with Non‑GMO seed or plant material and closely monitor every crop throughout the growing season.
- Our greenhouse team inspects crops regularly so problems can be addressed early and treatments can remain targeted.
- We use biological controls and organically approved products when they are appropriate for the crop and the issue.
- Our greenhouses and pesticide-application records are subject to inspection by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
- We continue improving our practices as safer and more effective greenhouse-growing methods become available.
This flexibility allows us to protect plant health while remaining thoughtful about our employees, customers, pollinators, and the environment.
A Greener Way to Grow
The Growers Exchange began on a family farm with deep roots in Virginia agriculture. Bordering the James River on three sides, the property included more than 50 acres of former cropland preserved as natural areas with prairie grasses, wildflowers, and herbs. These areas provided valuable wildlife habitat, while natural buffer strips helped protect the surrounding waterways.
In 2018, we moved our growing operation to TechPark Place, where we continue building on that tradition of responsible stewardship. At our current greenhouse, we continually look for practical ways to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect plant health.
Our cardboard shipping boxes contain post-consumer material and are recyclable. Whenever possible, we also use biodegradable or recyclable packing materials while ensuring that live plants remain protected throughout their journey.
For us, greener growing is not a marketing phrase. It is an ongoing responsibility—to our plants, our customers, our community, and the environment.