Welcome to our story
At MayFord Seeds, our journey is as vibrant and diverse as the seeds we cultivate. Step into our world and discover the rich history, innovation, and passion that has shaped our company into a cornerstone of the South African gardening community.
Where it all started
Our story begins in 1931 with the establishment of C. May & Co., laying the foundation for what would become one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected vegetable seed companies. Through four generations of family stewardship, MayFord has planted a legacy of excellence, with a diverse portfolio including seed production across various sectors, from hobby packets to professional vegetable seeds, turf seeds, flower seeds, and specialised offerings tailored for home gardening enthusiasts.
Revolutionising the industry
In the late 1960s, MayFord embarked on a transformative partnership with Sakata, becoming the exclusive distributor of their products in Southern Africa. In 1973, the introduction of hermetically sealed hobby packets.
This revolutionary packaging not only preserved seed quality but also established MayFord as a beacon of excellence in the industry.
A commitment to quality and innovation
Throughout our history, MayFord Seeds has remained steadfast in our commitment to quality and innovation. In the 1980s, our state-of-the-art seed laboratory earned government approval as an official testing station, reflecting our dedication to rigorous standards of excellence. This commitment was further strengthened with our acquisition by the Sakata Seed Corporation of Yokohama, Japan in 1999, propelling us into a new era of innovation and global leadership.
The focus remains
On the 1st of April 2008, MayFord Seeds rebranded to Sakata Seed Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd, while preserving the MayFord brand for our hobby and turf business. The MayFord brand has garnered a dedicated following in Southern Africa, offering an extensive range of consumer packs comprising vegetables, herbs, flowers, and lawn grasses through retail channels to home gardeners.
Beyond the garden: Turf products and environmental stewardship
In addition to our consumer offerings, we provide professional turf products tailored for golf courses, stadiums, and specialized applications. Our unique rehabilitation grass mixes, crafted to suit distinct climatic regions within Southern Africa, reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
Committed to excellence
Certified according to the ISO 9001 Quality Management System, Sakata Seed Southern Africa is dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible products and service. Our commitment to excellence drives everything we do, ensuring that every seed we sow nurtures a garden of possibilities.
Why choose MayFord?
1. Our hermetically sealed foil packets
ensure that our seeds remain fresh by keeping out air, extending their longevity and giving home gardeners more than enough time to store their seeds without worrying about spoilage.
2. With one of the largest and most diverse ranges
With one of the largest and most diverse ranges of seeds available, MayFord provides growers with countless options to explore. From vegetables to flowers and herbs to lawn, our extensive selection ensures that there’s something for every gardener.
3. We're committed to transparency and convenience.
We’re committed to transparency and convenience. With Best Before dates printed on our seed packets, home gardeners can easily track the lifespan of their seeds, providing peace of mind and aiding in optimal storage practices.