In late April and early May, many area residents are planning and planting their gardens. Many of us start our seedlings inside and then once the nights are warmer, we plant our gardens. Hopefully, many local folks have been able to borrow their seeds from our seed exchange at the library. There are still seeds available if you haven’t had a chance to do so yet.
The Canastota Public Library is a free seed exchange site committed to increasing the capacity of our community to eat wholesome foods. Our seeds are non-genetically modified seeds and many are heirloom seeds. This is the fifth year for the Canastota seed exchange and thanks to the generosity of our members, we have 321 different varieties of seeds to share this year.
Annually, we hold a plant and seedling exchange. This year, the plant and seedling exchange is scheduled for the week of May 8. To participate, simply bring your seedlings, divisions, tubers, plants or bulbs to exchange and/or share with others. Our plant exchange will be located near our Main Entrance of the library. Stop by that day or soon after for the best selection of the newest seedlings and plants.
The National Garden Bureau has named 2017 as the Year of the Brassica. The next time you stop by the Canastota Public Library, stop by our Seed Exchange section and browse the Brassica seeds we currently have on our shelves. The Brassica family of plants is one of the most prolific vegetables in the world. Brassica vegetables, including bok choy, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, kale, kohlrabi, rutabagas, and turnips are popular around the world today and have been a major food source for as long as anyone can remember.
Please join the Canastota seed exchange by filling out a membership form. Remember, you become a member when you borrow seeds to plant or donate seeds to our seed exchange library. We also have many resources on planting, growing and harvesting your garden.
It’s spring…it’s time to start growing.