Gardening can be an incredibly rewarding hobby. I’ve grown to love it in a very short amount of time. Not only does it provide a source of fresh produce and beautiful flowers, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature and get some physical exercise. Aka save money on food, therapy and a gym membership – ok. However, gardening can also get expensive if you let it. One of my favorite ways to save some money gardening and get my hands on some free seeds – Seed Libraries! I just learned about seed libraries so figured I’d share.
Seed Libraries – Ever Heard of Them?
Many libraries across the country have started seed libraries, where they offer free seeds to patrons. The concept is simple: you check out a packet of seeds from the library, plant them in your garden, and then harvest the fruits (or vegetables) of your labor. Once you’ve harvested your crops, you’re encouraged to save some of the seeds and return them to the library so that others can enjoy them too.
There are many benefits to getting seeds from a library. For one, it’s a great way to try out new varieties of plants without having to spend any money. You can experiment with different types of tomatoes, peppers, or herbs, and find out which ones grow best in your area. Additionally, seed libraries often focus on heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, which are more sustainable and diverse than the hybrid seeds that are typically sold in stores.
To get started, all you need to do is visit your local library and ask if they have a seed library. If they do, you’ll typically be able to browse the selection of seeds and check out as many packets as you’d like. Some libraries may have restrictions on how many packets you can check out at once, or they may require you to sign a form agreeing to save and return seeds at the end of the growing season.
If your library doesn’t have a seed library, don’t be afraid to ask if they’d be interested in starting one. Many libraries are open to the idea but simply haven’t had the resources or interest to start one yet. By expressing your interest, you may be able to help get a seed library up and running in your community.
Getting free seeds from libraries is an easy and affordable way to start or expand your garden. Not only does it save you money, but it also supports sustainable agriculture and community sharing. So, next time you’re at the library, be sure to check out the seed library and see what new plants you can grow in your garden!
