ARS | Publication request: EVALUATING HEIRLOOM DRY BEAN VARIETIES AS A NICHE MARKET CROP IN THE MARITIME NORTHWEST

Submitted to: Bean Improvement Cooperative Annual Report
Publication Type: Research Notes
Publication Acceptance Date: January 1, 2006
Publication Date: May 1, 2006
Citation: Wagner, J., Miles, C., Miklas, P.N. 2006. Evaluating heirloom dry bean varieties as a niche market crop in the maritime northwest. Bean Improvement Cooperative Annual Report. 49:129-130.

Technical Abstract: “Niche market” is a general term that describes bean varieties not in the major market classes. Not only are there niche market classes, there are also niche market varieties within the main market classes, some of which are classified as heirlooms. Although the definition for an heirloom variety is often debated, most people agree to the term “heirloom” if the variety has been either passed down for several generations or has been grown for a certain period of time. In addition, an heirloom plant must produce seeds that create a plant genetically identical to its parents. Heirloom varieties are increasing in popularity. Many people select them for taste, while others feel as though they are connecting with their heritage or the heritage of other cultures. It is important to research heirloom varieties not only as a potential niche market crop, but also for the sake of germplasm conservation.