About Ernst Conservation Seeds

About Ernst Seeds

Founded by Calvin Ernst in 1964, Ernst Conservation Seeds is the largest native seed producer and supplier in the eastern United States. We grow, process and sell hundreds of species of native and naturalized seeds and live plant materials, propagated on more than 9,000 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania.

To ensure our customers receive a quality product, all of our seeds are harvested, conditioned and tested under the highest quality standards. READ ABOUT OUR MISSION.

Ernst Historical Highlights

1960S

Elsie-and-Ted-Ernst-with-sons-Calvin,-Darrell-and-Luther — Elsie and Ted Ernst with sons Calvin, Darrell and Luther (l. to r.).

Early 1970s

The-Ernst-family-on-the-farm-in-Nebraska — Calvin, Michael and Andy on the family’s Nebraska farm.

1990s

The-Ernst-Seeds-team-was-growing-and-built-a-new-office-in-1996 — The Ernst team was growing and needed a new office in 1996.

Today

The-Ernst-Seeds-Headquarters — Our headquarters has grown significantly over the years, but remains in the same spot it began over 50 years ago.

Read The Ernst Story

Meet Our Team

Ernst Conservation Seeds has been a family business since Calvin Ernst founded the company. Calvin and the Ernst family still lead our operations today, though the extended Ernst “family” includes nearly 90 full-time employees.

Meet Our Team