Discussion on grex: Alys Fowler expounds upon the notion that farming vegetables isn't the only option, one can also domesticate their own plant varieties.

In the world of gardening, a new approach is gaining traction - the Grex method. This innovative technique, rooted in the natural process of genetic recombination, offers a promising solution for adapting vegetable varieties to local conditions, thereby increasing garden resilience.

At its core, creating a Grex involves carefully selecting various vegetable varieties, allowing them to cross-pollinate, and then selectively breeding for desired traits. The result is a group of plants with shared characteristics, not shared genetics, that form a complex genomic diversity.

Unlike traditional gardening practices, where seeds are bred to be uniform and reliably the same, the Grex method encourages diversity. Sowing seed often takes us further away from a responsive garden due to the small gene pool of named seeds. However, the complexity of the gene pool in a Grex provides a larger library to borrow from, benefiting future gardeners.

The joy of this breeding method lies in choosing plants that work directly for the gardener's specific needs. For instance, by breeding for difference and variation, it's possible to create plants that can handle dry or wet summers, require minimal watering, or no feeding.

The Grex method is not just a personal pursuit but a community effort. The act of many individuals creating their own Grexes creates a network of shared resources, ensuring a community saving for now and the future.

In Germany, while there's no explicit documentation of a group of garden enthusiasts ("Gartenfreunde") adopting the creation of Grexen, local adaptation mainly occurs at the cooperative and professional agricultural level. Regional crop trials and breeding programs test variety suitability for specific areas, as seen in regional cooperatives like NordGrün and formal variety trials in Hessen.

By breeding plants that respond to the gardener and garden, we can be good ancestors and give future gardeners the gift of resilience. It's a goal shared by many, and the Grex method is one way to achieve it.

Remember, the soil microbiome, compost, sunny corner, and frost pocket are factors to consider when gardening, regardless of the method you choose. The Grex method is a long-term commitment, with the process taking several years to stabilise the population.

In conclusion, the Grex method offers a promising approach to gardening, promoting diversity, resilience, and community spirit. It's a journey worth embarking on for those who seek to create a responsive and sustainable garden.