permaculture

[Paul Cereghino <paul.cereghino@comcast.net>]

*(Woodsjay writes)
The genetics of cultivars are damaged. The seedlings are in much better 
shape genetically. Counter argument - When one buys a cultivar, one 
isn't buying genetics, one is buying phenotypic expression.*

This is an elegant analysis... we are motivated by phenotypic 
expression... it is easy to eat.

*(Woodsjay writes)
Synthesis - The seed is a much smaller package and can be stored for 
long periods of time. Especially when it germinates under the plant or 
by squirrel, there is the feeling that the conditions are right for the 
plant. Likewise, improvement of the plant is much faster even if it is 
from a much less improved basis.*

what does "there is the feeling that the conditions are right for the 
plant" mean?

If we value phenotypic expression, what does the rate of improvement 
matter? And if value comes from phenotypic expression, how do you 
characterize 'improvment'? There is a lot of subtext related to 
population level genetics I'd like to hear more about. Are you 
suggesting that we adjust our values to include management of population 
genetics when planting exotic species?

I have taken the approach of buying in limited numbers of cultivars 
while foraging for seed and cuttings to meet future needs.  My initial 
plantings become parent plantings as cuttings and seed come available, 
and are mixed with more genetically and floristically diverse materials 
as I locate free sources from both sexual and asexual propagation.  One 
example is I have purchased one each of 5 varieties of Corylus avellana 
that are blight resistant and produce medium to large kernals.  I got 
them from stool propagation at $11US each.  I will stool or layer them 
in turn to multiply.. to approximately 15 trees of 5 varieties in my 
limited zone 3 (which might shift to zone 2 as my influence on the site 
increases).  Blight is spreading north into my area, likely increasing 
with climate change.  I might include additional individuals in my less 
managed hedgerows.  Why should I be motivated to invest in seedling 
Corylus avellana?