While garden beds rest until the cycle of planting begins again, the first step in germinating seeds is sharing, swapping, collecting or “borrowing” seeds. “Seed library checkouts” are infinite, with no late return fees, as seeds grow into plants, that generate seeds, that grow into plants and so on. Or, you can return extra seeds in the future to replenish seed vaults in your community, rippling out to produce seeds for an infinite number of gardens.
Agrarian societies and indigenous cultures ensured survival by protecting and swapping seeds, especially during times of hardship. By insisting there always be a surplus of seeds, biodiversity was achieved— like the Dakota women who hid seeds in their skirts, demonstrating extraordinary efforts to protect diverse seeds for future generations. Even today, the last Saturday in January is designated as National Seed Swap Day.
PLG school gardens can participate in promoting seed diversity, local food security, and cost effective resource sharingby acquiring seeds for the upcoming planting season. Even if you didn’t save your own seeds last year, find local events at libraries, community farms, online groups or even those in the neighborhood looking to share their seeds with you. Return the favor by sharing with newcomers next year!
The most notable organization taking on the important challenge of seed stewardship has been Seed Savers Exchange, founded in 1975. Fifty years later, now called “The Exchange,” SSE invites all gardeners to become participatory seed conservationists.
Why is this work important? We’ll let Seed Savers Exchange explain:
SSE focuses on stewarding and sharing the large collection of heirloom and open-pollinated varieties the organization has amassed over the years, thanks in large part to that original group of dedicated gardeners. These varieties are truly priceless— some represent a family’s immigration story, while others produce memorable, flavorful food dished up, year after year, at family gatherings. Together the seeds of these varieties compose an irreplaceable genetic resource that contributes to the security of our future food supply.
Are you ready to become an engaged participatory seed conservationist?
Let’s start where we began! Research your local seed swap opportunities, including your local public library for information or maybe even seeds. Many local libraries also allow you to literally check out seeds. If you cannot find anything in your neck of the woods, consider hosting an annual seed exchange yourself.
Either way, the Seed Library Network offers excellent details to begin your seed swapping journey:
- Seed exchange etiquette
- How to utilize and label seed envelopes to share with others
- Embracing seed diversity
- How to host your own seed exchange–virtual or in person
Share your seed swapping experience with us by tagging us on social media or share your story at learninggarden@captainplanetfdn.org.