What Is A Seed Library?
Seed libraries provide a free resource for community members to plant seeds in their gardens.
The first modern seed library sprouted in Berkeley, California, in 2000.
Credit:San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers / Getty Images
Since then, many public libraries have started lending seeds to their communities.
Some seed libraries focus on vegetables and herbs, while others also share seed packets for flowers.
you might also find seed libraries that are dedicated tosaving heirloomor native plant seeds.
How Can I Find A Seed Library?
Start by checking with your local library.
A simple Internet search for a “seed library near me” can also help find the nearest one.
How To Check Out Seeds
Requirements will vary by library.
Some require a library card, but others won’t.
Libraries may restrict how many packets you take each season so that’s there are enough seeds for everyone.
Some libraries may prefer unopened seed packets from a store.
Others may only take open-pollinated and heirloom vegetable seeds or only wantnative plantseeds.
Allow seeds to fully dry and remove any debris before packaging them.
Place the seeds in an envelope labeled with the plant species and variety, as well as a date.
Check out our growing guides onfast-growing summer flower seedsandhow to start seeds indoors.
