in this episode

In this episode, Hugo speaks with artisanal seed grower Roby Gobeil from Jardin des vie-la-joie. They explore modern landraces, real-world selection, and Roby’s ongoing genetic mixing projects with carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet corn, okra, and sorghum. Roby shares his approach to genetic diversity, his experience in the Going to Seed cohort, and his vision for the future of evolutionary plant populations in Quebec.

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Roby Gobeil is an artisanal seed grower and founder of Le Jardin des vie-la-joie, a seed farm established in 2016. Originally located in the Granby area, it later moved to Lotbinière before settling near Beauport, Quebec. For nearly ten years, Roby has cultivated and selected close to 500 varieties of medicinal, vegetable, native, and ornamental plants. His work is guided by a deep commitment to biodiversity, plant resilience, and the joy of living in rhythm with the seasons. About 20% of his catalogue consists of genetically diverse populations, reflecting his passion for Joseph Lofthouse’s Landrace Gardening philosophy. A 2024 and 2025 Going to Seed grantee, Roby is developing a population of okra adapted to Quebec’s short growing seasons. He is also working to diversify and adapt other crops, including summer and winter squash, sorghum, eggplant, rice, and peppers. Through Le Jardin des vie-la-joie, Roby continues to refine the art of seed growing and to share seeds that embody health, beauty, abundance, and a deep connection to life. 

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