Open-pollination is when pollination occurs by insect, bird, wind, humans, or other natural mechanisms. Open-pollinated plants are more genetically diverse. This can cause a greater amount of variation within plant populations, which allows plants to slowly adapt to local growing conditions and climate year-to-year.
Over hundreds and hundreds of years, Sri Lankan farmers used natural breeding techniques to select and save seed. They developed thousands of varieties of rice, yams, vegetables, and other crops that are well adapted to local environmental conditions, health requirements, and taste preferences.
Open-pollinated seeds grow well in organic conditions and they can be saved from year to year to help farmers adapt to climate change.