F1 means first generation Cross where two seed parent specifically crossed will produce the variety on the front Bit like chooks for egg laying. You can save the seeds yourself but they won't come true to type, they may be better, they may be worse.

Another couple of problem with F1 seed is that

1) It is expensive & you tend not to get so much in a packet as it has to be produced under conditions that don't allow for crossing with other varieties (I deliberatley didn't say laboratory conditions as this gives rise to GMO ideas & they're not grown like that, they are close pollenated)

2) It is very uniform in habit, great if you want to sell 25 acres of peas to Mr Birdseye not great if you want to have a reasonable cropping period (say a few weeks)

As you've been given them you've got nothing to loose!! so sow away without any worries.

When it comes to next year (or later on this year even) & you want to buy your seeds, just have a think - do you want to save your own seeds? if you want to , then buy open pollenated varieties If your not bothered well carry on as you are. You may not want to get involved in seed saving yet, but if you do, get Sue Stricklands book on seed saving & start with the easy ones Peas & Beans.

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ntg

Never be afraid to try something new.
Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark.
A large group of professionals built the Titanic

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