26 February 2011

Seedy Saturday


There's a seed-swapping event going on today in Picton. I've never been to one before, so wasn't sure about how they worked. But taking seeds seemed to be a key part of the whole concept, so I spent some time this morning bagging up some of the parsley, dill and coriander seeds I collected from the greenhouse herbs last summer.

There was a long table at the event, with different containers for different categories of seeds. I deposited my collection in the 'herb' basket and was then free to browse the others. I came away with some Dakota Black Popcorn, Green Arrow peas and a packet of Nicotiana sylvestris.


See those brown envelopes? They're just made from single sheets of paper. I felt bad about my seeds in their plastic bags when I saw them - I think they're great. Maybe next year...

There were seed vendors there, too, with a wide range of seeds for sale. I couldn't resist a packet of alfalfa seeds: I've been meaning to have a go at growing some seeds for sprouting for ages. Child#2 was given a packet of mixed sunflowers by the lady at the Edith Fox Life and Loss Centre's table and I listened to Vicki Emlaw of Vicki's Veggies give an interesting talk about the concept of seed sovereignty and how to go about saving lettuce seeds.

I'm glad I went along. Now I need to do some research to find out how best to sprout these alfalfa seeds...

6 comments:

Bangchik and Kakdah said...

Swapping seeds is a way that connects gardeners worldwide.... great!

Linda said...

I love the seeds idea....but I would REALLY love to know how to make those single piece of paper envelopes!

Amanda said...

Linda - the link to the diagram of how to fold the envelopes is http://tomclothier.hort.net/templat3.htm. It takes a bit of figuring out - but as long as you turn the paper over after fold 2, you should be fine!

Linda said...

Oh my gosh, I totally forgot about Seedy Saturday. It seems like you had an interesting morning.

Linda said...

I've never been to one, in fact have never got round to saving much seed, but you've inspired me.
Funny about the eco envelope culture! Never mind, you'll fit in next year!

Lucy Corrander : Photos said...

Ditto - impressed by the envelope.

Have sprouted alfalfa successfully but not grown Nicotiniana - hope that goes well.

Lucy