The History of Bentley Seeds

Bentley Seeds has been helping American families grow their own food and flowers since 1975. What began as a small family-run seed packet operation in Cambridge, New York, has grown into one of the most trusted names in home gardening. Today, as Bentley Seeds prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, the company's rich history remains tightly rooted in its original values: quality, integrity, and a commitment to helping people grow good things.

How Bentley Seeds Got Started

Bentley Seeds was originally established as the packet seed division of Lofts Seed Company in 1975. Located in upstate New York, the company focused on providing reliable seed packets for home gardeners during a time when self-sufficiency and food security were gaining renewed interest across the country.

Over the next two decades, as gardening trends evolved and interest in heirloom and non-GMO crops grew, the Bentley family took full ownership of the brand. They transformed it into an independent, family-owned operation with full control over seed sourcing, packaging, and fulfillment.

A Family Business Built to Last

Today, Bentley Seeds is still family owned and operated. The Bentley family are still actively involved in various aspects of the business, from product development to customer service. Their hands-on leadership ensures Bentley Seeds continues to operate with the same passion and integrity that guided its early days.

This consistency has made Bentley Seeds a go-to source for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether you're planting a backyard vegetable garden, creating a pollinator haven, or using custom seed packets as wedding favors, Bentley Seeds delivers a high-quality product with a personal touch.

Commitment to Non-GMO Seed Integrity

From the beginning, Bentley Seeds has taken a firm stance against genetically modified organisms (GMOs). They were among the first seed companies to sign the Safe Seed Pledge, an initiative by the Council for Responsible Genetics, committing not to knowingly buy or sell GMO seeds.

This pledge is more than a marketing point. It's a statement of trust. Gardeners know that when they purchase from Bentley, they’re getting clean, uncoated, high-germination seeds that are safe for families, pets, pollinators, and the planet.

Expanding Through Innovation

Today, Bentley Seeds has the capacity to fill over 250,000 seed packets per day, thanks to state-of-the-art machinery and a climate-controlled warehouse. These capabilities support not just retail seed sales, but also large-scale promotional projects, corporate gifts, and custom event favors.

Custom Seed Packets: A Brand Differentiator

While many know Bentley for their seed quality, others are drawn to the brand because of its creative and beautifully designed custom seed packets. These special occasion packets have been used at:

• Weddings

• Memorial services

• Corporate giveaways

• Earth Day events

• Schools and fundraising efforts

Each packet is thoughtfully designed and printed locally through a trusted partner, allowing customers to create a lasting impression while giving something meaningful and eco-friendly. These efforts have helped Bentley Seeds expand its reach and attract a new generation of gardeners who care about sustainability and storytelling.

Grounded in Gardening Education

Part of Bentley Seeds' mission has always been to empower home gardeners with the knowledge they need to succeed. The company offers:

• Planting calendars by USDA hardiness zone

• Gardening tips on packet backs

• Downloadable charts and spacing guides

• Blogs with seasonal advice

They've also made it a point to keep gardening accessible. Many of their packets are priced affordably, making it easy for beginners to try their hand at planting without a steep investment.

Celebrating 50 Years of Growth

As Bentley Seeds approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025, the company is poised for its next stage of growth. Yet it remains committed to its founding principles:

• Quality over quantity: Every seed is fresh crop, high germination, and non-GMO.

• People first: The Bentley family still answers customer emails, packs orders, and listens to feedback.

• Grow good things: Whether it’s food, flowers, or community impact, Bentley believes in making the world better, one seed at a time.

A Legacy Rooted in Trust

Bentley Seeds stands out not just for what it sells, but for how it operates. Gardeners across the U.S. return year after year because they trust Bentley to provide seeds that grow. The company’s longevity is proof of its consistent quality, community involvement, and passion for helping people connect with the soil.

From the first seed packet printed in 1975 to the 250,000th packet filled today, Bentley Seeds has remained a beacon for home growers, educators, and eco-conscious consumers alike. Their story is one of family, innovation, and deep respect for the natural world. And as the company continues to grow, so will the gardens they help create.