See how heirloom seeds go from field to packet.
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Attendees can tour Baker Creek seed packing facility during the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener State Conference, set for June 4-7 in Springfield.
The facility is the operational hub of Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co., one of the largest heirloom seed suppliers in North America, said MU Extension horticulturist Kelly McGowan. The modern warehouse and packing operation are part of a larger campus designed to handle high volumes of seed cleaning, testing and packaging.
Inside the facility, seeds sourced from growers around the world are cleaned, tested for germination and quality, and packaged for distribution. Climate-controlled storage areas help maintain seed viability, while specialized equipment allows the company to fill and ship millions of seed packets during peak season.
Adjacent to the packing facility are Baker Creek’s greenhouses and trial gardens, where new and rare plant varieties are grown and evaluated before appearing in catalogs. Tours showcase the contrast between cutting-edge logistics—such as streamlined order-picking systems—and the company’s mission to preserve open-pollinated, non-GMO and heirloom plant genetics, said Debi Kelly, MU Extension Master Gardener state coordinator.
The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how seeds move from field to packet, supporting gardeners nationwide while helping conserve agricultural biodiversity, Kelly said.
Conference attendees also can visit the Ozarks Food Harvest’s Full Circle Gardens, Springfield-area home gardens, Extension Master Gardener demonstration gardens and local parks. Shuttle service will be provided for off-site tours and classes.
The conference theme, “Seeds to Table – Cultivating Health and Sustainability,” reflects a focus on connecting gardeners from across the state while building skills in vegetable, herb and native plant gardening using environmentally responsible practices, McGowan said.
In addition to tours, the conference features breakout sessions, networking opportunities and hands-on activities. London-born chef-turned-gardener Mitch McCulloch will serve as the banquet keynote speaker and will be available to sign his latest book, “The Seed Hunter,” which focuses on preserving rare and endangered heirloom vegetables.
The weekend also includes an on-site trade show designed to inspire attendees as they head into the growing season, McGowan said.
Master Gardeners of Greene County will host the conference at the Oasis Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield.
In addition to this learning opportunity, the Missouri Master Gardener Association will hold a conference Oct. 2-3. This hybrid event combines statewide virtual learning with local in-person watch parties. More information.