Some gardeners want to preserve the genetic diversity that old plant varieties provide. Without deliberate efforts to grow antique plants, new and more popular varieties could replace them. Historically interesting as they are, however, heirloom plants aren't necessarily trouble-free. Depending on the species, disease resistance may be poor. Vegetables may not yield as much produce as modern hybrids nor produce as blemish-free fruit.
Some antique plants are less compact and sprawl wildly.
Color selection may be limited, blossoms may be fewer than modern hybrids. But certain features, such as fragrance, may be better. A lot depended on the gardener, his financial status and where he lived. Most plants served a food, medical or seasoning use, though some were planted purely for their beauty, interest or fragrance. By the third quarter of the eighteenth century, life was more secure.