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Open source seeds as in the Open Source Seed Initiate [1] come with a GPL-like pledge that you won't restrict creations from seeds based on these seeds [2]

> You have the freedom to use these OSSI-Pledged seeds in any way you choose. In return, you pledge not to restrict others’ use of these seeds or their derivatives by patents or other means, and to include this pledge with any transfer of these seeds or their derivatives.

[1]: https://osseeds.org/ [2]: https://osseeds.org/ossi-faqs/



I'm not against this idea--I'm just frustrated by the fact that this is now something we have to spell out explicitly and back with the threat of legal action, instead of common sense.


Well, you've always had to do this. If you give someone seeds, they would be free to use those seeds to develop patented varieties.


I suspect we're actually talking about the same thing here, but misunderstanding each other. It happens.




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