When browsing through your seed catalogs, you may notice some terminology that can be 
confusing. Seed is often categorized as open pollinated (op), heirloom or hybrid. Understanding these descriptions is especially important if you plan to save your own seed.
Open Pollinated (OP) – These varieties can produce seed that is true to type, or that will grow the same plant again. It’s important to keep in mind that some species can easily cross-pollinate with each other, so their seed will only be true to type if varieties are isolated from each other.
Heirloom – These are open pollinated varieties that have been passed down within communities or families. Usually these varieties have been around for many years and continue to be treasured for great flavor, and adaptability and vigor. All heirlooms are open pollinated (OP), but not all open pollinated varieties are considered to be heirlooms.
Hybrid – Seeds created by controlled cross pollinating between two chosen varieties. These are often referred to as F1 plants. Seed collected from these plants will not produce the same plant, or they are not true to type. Hybrids are usually created with specific goals in mind, such as increased disease resistance, more fruit production, better flavor, etc.