#seedsaving — Public Fediverse posts

Master Gardener Spotlight: The Need for Seed – MSU Extension https://www.allforgardening.com/1929694/master-gardener-spotlight-the-need-for-seed-msu-extension/ #biodiversity #ControlledPollination #F1 #gardening #GardeningMontana #GeneticDiversity #heirloom #hybrid #Montaña #OpenPollinated #SeedLibrary #SeedSaving #SeedSharing

Master Gardener Spotlight: The Need for Seed – MSU Extension https://www.allforgardening.com/1929694/master-gardener-spotlight-the-need-for-seed-msu-extension/ #biodiversity #ControlledPollination #F1 #gardening #GardeningMontana #GeneticDiversity #heirloom #hybrid #Montaña #OpenPollinated #SeedLibrary #SeedSaving #SeedSharing

Easy steps to store your garden seeds and keep them viable.

#gardening
#GrowFood
#SeedSaving

https://seedsavers.org/storing-seeds/?mc_cid=53678fa900

Easy steps to store garden seed and keep them viable.

#gardening
#GrowFood
#SeedSaving

https://seedsavers.org/storing-seeds/?mc_cid=53678fa900

#UMaineCooperativeExtension - Bulletin #2750, An Introduction to #SeedSaving for the #HomeGardener

By Mark Hutton

"Rediscovering Seed Saving

"Seed saving is an ancient art that enabled humans to cease being hunter-gatherers. Up until the end of World War II, home gardeners typically saved their own seeds, because high-quality seeds at affordable prices were generally not available. However, seed saving declined with the development of the commercial seed industry, which made low-cost, high-quality vegetable and flower seeds readily available. Presently, renewed interest in #heirloom, unique, and locally adapted vegetable and flower varieties is sparking a resurgence in seed saving.

"Seed-saving is a natural next step for passionate gardeners. Saving seeds not only allows home gardeners to save money; it provides them with an opportunity to express their creativity! This is because saving seed is a form of selection—the very basis of plant breeding. When choosing which plants to save seed from, a gardener must decide which plants have the most desirable characteristics in terms of meeting their goals for plant size, yield, fruit quality, maturity date, attractiveness, etc., thus helping to improve the offspring. When you save seed from your garden, you can create a cultivar uniquely suited to your location, your aesthetic sensibilities, and culinary tastes. Saving seeds takes time, planning, and attention to detail. Here are some basics to get you started on your seed saving adventure."

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2750e/

#SolarPunkSunday #UMaine #Maine #GrowYourOwn #Seeds #HarvestingSeeds #HeirloomSeeds #Gardening #HomeGardens

#UMaineCooperativeExtension - Bulletin #2750, An Introduction to #SeedSaving for the #HomeGardener

By Mark Hutton

"Rediscovering Seed Saving

"Seed saving is an ancient art that enabled humans to cease being hunter-gatherers. Up until the end of World War II, home gardeners typically saved their own seeds, because high-quality seeds at affordable prices were generally not available. However, seed saving declined with the development of the commercial seed industry, which made low-cost, high-quality vegetable and flower seeds readily available. Presently, renewed interest in #heirloom, unique, and locally adapted vegetable and flower varieties is sparking a resurgence in seed saving.

"Seed-saving is a natural next step for passionate gardeners. Saving seeds not only allows home gardeners to save money; it provides them with an opportunity to express their creativity! This is because saving seed is a form of selection—the very basis of plant breeding. When choosing which plants to save seed from, a gardener must decide which plants have the most desirable characteristics in terms of meeting their goals for plant size, yield, fruit quality, maturity date, attractiveness, etc., thus helping to improve the offspring. When you save seed from your garden, you can create a cultivar uniquely suited to your location, your aesthetic sensibilities, and culinary tastes. Saving seeds takes time, planning, and attention to detail. Here are some basics to get you started on your seed saving adventure."

Learn more:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2750e/

#SolarPunkSunday #UMaine #Maine #GrowYourOwn #Seeds #HarvestingSeeds #HeirloomSeeds #Gardening #HomeGardens

#SeedSaversExchange - #SeedSaving

Whether you’re new to seed saving or want to brush up on the time-honored practice, these seed-saving basics are a smart place to start

"Why Save Seeds?

Have you ever tried to save seeds from your crops? While the topic may seem daunting, anyone can do it! Not only is seed saving practical, it’s also very rewarding and essential for biodiversity preservation."

Topics include:

#KnowYourPlants
#IsolationMethods
Understanding #SeedMaturity
Harvesting and Cleaning Seeds
Dry #SeedProcessing
#StoringSeeds

Includes a lot of information about common plants (tomatoes, peppers, squash, okra, cucumbers, corn), and instructional videos!

FMI:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/seed-saving/

#SolarPunkSunday #PreservingSeeds #SeedSwaps #SeedSaving #GrowYourOwn #HeritageFarms #SSE #Biodiversity #PreservingBiodiversity #HeirloomPlants #HeirloomSeeds

#SeedSaversExchange - #SeedSaving

Whether you’re new to seed saving or want to brush up on the time-honored practice, these seed-saving basics are a smart place to start

"Why Save Seeds?

Have you ever tried to save seeds from your crops? While the topic may seem daunting, anyone can do it! Not only is seed saving practical, it’s also very rewarding and essential for biodiversity preservation."

Topics include:

#KnowYourPlants
#IsolationMethods
Understanding #SeedMaturity
Harvesting and Cleaning Seeds
Dry #SeedProcessing
#StoringSeeds

Includes a lot of information about common plants (tomatoes, peppers, squash, okra, cucumbers, corn), and instructional videos!

FMI:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/seed-saving/

#SolarPunkSunday #PreservingSeeds #SeedSwaps #SeedSaving #GrowYourOwn #HeritageFarms #SSE #Biodiversity #PreservingBiodiversity #HeirloomPlants #HeirloomSeeds

#SeedSavingExchange - Learn how to create a garden that will attract #NativePollinators with #SeedSaving in mind.

Excerpt:

"Serve Up an Enticing Menu Year-Round

Flowering plants supply #pollinators like #bees and #butterflies with essential pollen and nectar. #PollinatorFriendly plants also provide a safe shelter for our hard-working insect friends. The most important aspect of any pollinator garden is diversity. Because pollinators are active from April to October, make sure you have a colorful array of continuously blooming flowers from early spring through fall and keep your plants free of pesticides, fungicides, and insecticides.

Plants should be selected based on the space they will occupy. Specifically, consider your space’s soil type, sun exposure, and moisture levels.

You may also choose to select plant species to support specific pollinators.

- To help monarch butterflies, include #milkweeds and high-quality nectar plants like blazingstars.
- To support #Bumblebees, include plants like #WildBergamot, #hyssop, and #goldenrod.
- #Sunflowers offer not only a supportive perch but also seeds to help attract #hummingbirds and other feathered friends to your garden. #Honeysuckles are also a great way to attract hummingbirds.

To ensure that the pollinators will have something to forage from spring through fall, select various natives that flower at different times throughout the growing season. Choosing plants with a variety of flower colors and shapes will also help attract an assortment of insects of a variety of sizes and foraging habits. Larger clusters of a plant species are better for attracting pollinators than several smaller clusters in and around the garden space."

Learn more:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/pollinators/

#SolarPunkSunday #Gardening #GardeningForPollinators #SeedCollection #NativePlants

#SeedSavingExchange - Learn how to create a garden that will attract #NativePollinators with #SeedSaving in mind.

Excerpt:

"Serve Up an Enticing Menu Year-Round

Flowering plants supply #pollinators like #bees and #butterflies with essential pollen and nectar. #PollinatorFriendly plants also provide a safe shelter for our hard-working insect friends. The most important aspect of any pollinator garden is diversity. Because pollinators are active from April to October, make sure you have a colorful array of continuously blooming flowers from early spring through fall and keep your plants free of pesticides, fungicides, and insecticides.

Plants should be selected based on the space they will occupy. Specifically, consider your space’s soil type, sun exposure, and moisture levels.

You may also choose to select plant species to support specific pollinators.

- To help monarch butterflies, include #milkweeds and high-quality nectar plants like blazingstars.
- To support #Bumblebees, include plants like #WildBergamot, #hyssop, and #goldenrod.
- #Sunflowers offer not only a supportive perch but also seeds to help attract #hummingbirds and other feathered friends to your garden. #Honeysuckles are also a great way to attract hummingbirds.

To ensure that the pollinators will have something to forage from spring through fall, select various natives that flower at different times throughout the growing season. Choosing plants with a variety of flower colors and shapes will also help attract an assortment of insects of a variety of sizes and foraging habits. Larger clusters of a plant species are better for attracting pollinators than several smaller clusters in and around the garden space."

Learn more:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/pollinators/

#SolarPunkSunday #Gardening #GardeningForPollinators #SeedCollection #NativePlants

#FalmouthME - #SeedCollection & Processing – Workshop Series at #GilslandFarm

Aug 15 2026

9:00 am - 10:30 am

Cost: $25 members, $30 nonmembers

"Join us on the third Saturday of each month at the Ann & Jim Hancock Native Plants Education Center for a day of hands-on learning, seasonal skill-building, and creative exploration.

Morning workshops (9–10:30 am) are led by Maine Audubon’s Native Plants Program team and focus on practical topics such as seed collection, propagation, potting, and ecological planting. From 11 am–1 pm, all registrants are invited to visit the nursery for in-person plant shopping and guidance from staff.

Afternoon sessions (1–3 pm) shift toward art-based workshops inspired by native plants and the landscapes they shape."

FMI and to register:
https://maineaudubon.org/events/seed-collection-processing/?emci=c4afe479-ac8a-f111-b337-000d3a1558ce&emdi=89f9b436-5f8e-f111-b337-000d3a1558ce&ceid=14973917

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineAudubon #NativePlants #SeedSaving #ArtWorkshops #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #Nature

#FalmouthME - #SeedCollection & Processing – Workshop Series at #GilslandFarm

Aug 15 2026

9:00 am - 10:30 am

Cost: $25 members, $30 nonmembers

"Join us on the third Saturday of each month at the Ann & Jim Hancock Native Plants Education Center for a day of hands-on learning, seasonal skill-building, and creative exploration.

Morning workshops (9–10:30 am) are led by Maine Audubon’s Native Plants Program team and focus on practical topics such as seed collection, propagation, potting, and ecological planting. From 11 am–1 pm, all registrants are invited to visit the nursery for in-person plant shopping and guidance from staff.

Afternoon sessions (1–3 pm) shift toward art-based workshops inspired by native plants and the landscapes they shape."

FMI and to register:
https://maineaudubon.org/events/seed-collection-processing/?emci=c4afe479-ac8a-f111-b337-000d3a1558ce&emdi=89f9b436-5f8e-f111-b337-000d3a1558ce&ceid=14973917

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineAudubon #NativePlants #SeedSaving #ArtWorkshops #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #Nature

Seeds and Soil Organics in Alaska 🌲 grows agroecological seeds for food sovereignty 🌱. No-till, no chemicals—just living soil and resilience ❄️🌞. https://agroecologymap.org/l/392 #Agroecology #Permaculture #Alaska #SeedSaving #SoilHealth

Seeds and Soil Organics in Alaska 🌲 grows agroecological seeds for food sovereignty 🌱. No-till, no chemicals—just living soil and resilience ❄️🌞. https://agroecologymap.org/l/392 #Agroecology #Permaculture #Alaska #SeedSaving #SoilHealth

#Gardens that Nurture #Culture

Spring 2022

Excerpt: "Growing one’s own food became more appealing and, in some cases, a greater necessity to many in this pandemic era. #NativePeoples have long tended gardens that have provided their communities with #sustainably grown foods, #MedicinalPlants and #NaturalMaterials. Today these much-needed sources of local, healthy foods are also places to cultivate and preserve #CulturalTraditions.

" 'Even some Native cultures—like #foraging cultures—that didn’t historically garden now see it as a helpful use of land and time and money because they can efficiently produce the kinds of foods that people need to stay healthy,' said Elizabeth Hoover. Of #Mohawk and #Mikmaq descent, she is an associate professor of Environmental Science, Policy and Management at the University of California in Berkeley. Researching this trend, she drove 20,000 miles in 2014 to talk with dozens of #AmericanIndian gardeners and food advocates.

"In western North Carolina, David Anderson works as the horticultural operations supervisor at the #JessieOwleDugan #NativePlant and Greenhouse Facility of the Eastern Band of #Cherokee Indians. The complex includes three #greenhouses, 30 raised growing beds, a 3-acre nursery and 5 acres of fields dedicated to producing crops specifically for their seeds. It also has 330 acres of field that can be leased to enrolled tribal members who wish to garden or farm.

"While the facility does generate funds for the tribe, it also preserves culturally important species to get them into the hands of tribal members to plant. It focuses on growing traditional plants, such as #grapes, #elderberry, #WildStrawberries, #blackberries, #huckleberries sochan and #cohosh. In 2021, the greenhouse also grew #hickory saplings, which once mature, can to provide wood that can be used to make stickball sticks, artworks and other traditional projects. 'We serve our community with plants for home, for farmers, and for restoration,' said Anderson."

Read more:
https://www.americanindianmagazine.org/story/gardens-that-nurture-culture

#SolarPunkSunday #TraditionalFoods #NativeAmericans #CulturalPreservation #GrowYourOwnFood #Resilience #FoodSecurity #HeirloomPlants #SeedSaving

#Gardens that Nurture #Culture

Spring 2022

Excerpt: "Growing one’s own food became more appealing and, in some cases, a greater necessity to many in this pandemic era. #NativePeoples have long tended gardens that have provided their communities with #sustainably grown foods, #MedicinalPlants and #NaturalMaterials. Today these much-needed sources of local, healthy foods are also places to cultivate and preserve #CulturalTraditions.

" 'Even some Native cultures—like #foraging cultures—that didn’t historically garden now see it as a helpful use of land and time and money because they can efficiently produce the kinds of foods that people need to stay healthy,' said Elizabeth Hoover. Of #Mohawk and #Mikmaq descent, she is an associate professor of Environmental Science, Policy and Management at the University of California in Berkeley. Researching this trend, she drove 20,000 miles in 2014 to talk with dozens of #AmericanIndian gardeners and food advocates.

"In western North Carolina, David Anderson works as the horticultural operations supervisor at the #JessieOwleDugan #NativePlant and Greenhouse Facility of the Eastern Band of #Cherokee Indians. The complex includes three #greenhouses, 30 raised growing beds, a 3-acre nursery and 5 acres of fields dedicated to producing crops specifically for their seeds. It also has 330 acres of field that can be leased to enrolled tribal members who wish to garden or farm.

"While the facility does generate funds for the tribe, it also preserves culturally important species to get them into the hands of tribal members to plant. It focuses on growing traditional plants, such as #grapes, #elderberry, #WildStrawberries, #blackberries, #huckleberries sochan and #cohosh. In 2021, the greenhouse also grew #hickory saplings, which once mature, can to provide wood that can be used to make stickball sticks, artworks and other traditional projects. 'We serve our community with plants for home, for farmers, and for restoration,' said Anderson."

Read more:
https://www.americanindianmagazine.org/story/gardens-that-nurture-culture

#SolarPunkSunday #TraditionalFoods #NativeAmericans #CulturalPreservation #GrowYourOwnFood #Resilience #FoodSecurity #HeirloomPlants #SeedSaving

How to Recreate a Pioneer Garden at Home https://www.allforgardening.com/1893750/how-to-recreate-a-pioneer-garden-at-home/ #AppleTrees #compost #EdibleLandscaping #EspalierTechnique #flowers #FoodGardens #FruitTrees #garden #gardening #GardeningTips&Hacks #gardens #HeirloomCrops #herbs #landscaping #MikschGarden #OldSalem #PeachTrees #RaisedGardenBed #SeedSaving #SingleBrothers’Garden #VegetableGarden #vegetables #WinstonSalem

How to Recreate a Pioneer Garden at Home https://www.allforgardening.com/1893750/how-to-recreate-a-pioneer-garden-at-home/ #AppleTrees #compost #EdibleLandscaping #EspalierTechnique #flowers #FoodGardens #FruitTrees #garden #gardening #GardeningTips&Hacks #gardens #HeirloomCrops #herbs #landscaping #MikschGarden #OldSalem #PeachTrees #RaisedGardenBed #SeedSaving #SingleBrothers’Garden #VegetableGarden #vegetables #WinstonSalem

Ancient #Seeds, Lost Beans: The Professor Saving North Macedonia's Vanishing Crops

https://balkaninsight.com/2026/07/20/ancient-seeds-lost-beans-the-professor-saving-north-macedonias-vanishing-crops/bi/ #seedsaving

Ancient #Seeds, Lost Beans: The Professor Saving North Macedonia's Vanishing Crops

https://balkaninsight.com/2026/07/20/ancient-seeds-lost-beans-the-professor-saving-north-macedonias-vanishing-crops/bi/ #seedsaving

Grow a Modern Victory Garden – Mother Earth News https://www.allforgardening.com/1845946/grow-a-modern-victory-garden-mother-earth-news/ #garden #SeedSaving #VictoryGarden

Grow a Modern Victory Garden – Mother Earth News https://www.allforgardening.com/1845946/grow-a-modern-victory-garden-mother-earth-news/ #garden #SeedSaving #VictoryGarden

How do you like the pantyhose plant I'm growing in my garden? Just kidding! I've put knee-high stockings over the seed pods on this collard plant so I can save the seed without it falling to the ground or, more likely, getting eaten by our greedy goldfinches.

#gardening #SeedSaving #GrowYourFood

How do you like the pantyhose plant I'm growing in my garden? Just kidding! I've put knee-high stockings over the seed pods on this collard plant so I can save the seed without it falling to the ground or, more likely, getting eaten by our greedy goldfinches.

#gardening #SeedSaving #GrowYourFood

Some Home Gardeners Are Saving and Replanting Seeds From Every Harvest, And After Two Years They Say They Have Not Bought a Single Seed Packet Since https://www.allforgardening.com/1820805/some-home-gardeners-are-saving-and-replanting-seeds-from-every-harvest-and-after-two-years-they-say-they-have-not-bought-a-single-seed-packet-since/ #garden #gardener #gardening #plant #PlantingSeeds #SeedSaving

Some Home Gardeners Are Saving and Replanting Seeds From Every Harvest, And After Two Years They Say They Have Not Bought a Single Seed Packet Since https://www.allforgardening.com/1820805/some-home-gardeners-are-saving-and-replanting-seeds-from-every-harvest-and-after-two-years-they-say-they-have-not-bought-a-single-seed-packet-since/ #garden #gardener #gardening #plant #PlantingSeeds #SeedSaving

#climatecrisis #plantextinction #seedsaving

Meet the people protecting the magic beans of life from extinction | Jess Harwood | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/picture/2026/jun/13/meet-the-people-protecting-the-magic-beans-of-life-from-extinction

#climatecrisis #plantextinction #seedsaving

Meet the people protecting the magic beans of life from extinction | Jess Harwood | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/picture/2026/jun/13/meet-the-people-protecting-the-magic-beans-of-life-from-extinction

https://mastodon.nl/@Kleverbergh/116723966211214280

Gisteren een inspirerende avond gehad: Eerst een film over Vandana Shiva, de activiste als het gaat om eco-feminisme en voedselsoevereiniteit. Daarna door drie bevlogen sprekers bijgepraat over zaadgoed in Nederland.

Ik ben weer scherp en gemotiveerd om in de gemeenschapstuin waar ik actief ben eigen zaadgoed te gaan kweken. 🌱

#VandanaShiva #Activism #SeedSaving #Agriculture #Zaadgoed #Voedselsoevereiniteit #Biodiversiteit

@Kleverbergh
Bedankt voor het organiseren!

https://mastodon.nl/@Kleverbergh/116723966211214280

Gisteren een inspirerende avond gehad: Eerst een film over Vandana Shiva, de activiste als het gaat om eco-feminisme en voedselsoevereiniteit. Daarna door drie bevlogen sprekers bijgepraat over zaadgoed in Nederland.

Ik ben weer scherp en gemotiveerd om in de gemeenschapstuin waar ik actief ben eigen zaadgoed te gaan kweken. 🌱

#VandanaShiva #Activism #SeedSaving #Agriculture #Zaadgoed #Voedselsoevereiniteit #Biodiversiteit

@Kleverbergh
Bedankt voor het organiseren!

@mrundkvist
That's good to hear for us this side we have to save some seeds for the next season #seedsaving @gardening

@mrundkvist
That's good to hear for us this side we have to save some seeds for the next season #seedsaving @gardening

Excerpt from Seed Saving: Introduction by the #SeedSavingExchange

"Know Your Plants

Know whether your parent plant is a hybrid or open-pollinated variety.

Open-pollinated varieties are like dog breeds; they will retain their distinct characteristics as long as they are pollinated (or “mated”) with the same “breed”/variety.

Hybrids, which are created by crossing plants of two different varieties, generally do not produce offspring with the same traits as the parent plant. Seeds saved from open-pollinated varieties, on the other hand, will produce plants identical to the parent.

Seed Savers Exchange offers only open-pollinated varieties through its online and print catalog and on The Exchange, its gardener-to-gardener seed swap.

So what are #OpenPollinated varieties, and what is their lifespan? Open-pollinated varieties are like dog breeds; they will retain their distinct characteristics as long as they are pollinated (or “mated”) with the same “breed”/variety.

This means, with a little care and planning, the seeds you produce will be true-to-type, keeping their distinct traits generation after generation as long as they do not cross-pollinate with other varieties of the same species.
Know your plants’ lifespans.

Open-pollinated varieties can be annual, biennial, and perennial.

Plants that flower, set seed, and die in a single growing season—like lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers—are called annuals.

Biennials, such as carrots and onions, don’t flower until their second growing season after they have gone through a cold period called vernalization.

Some long-lived plants, like apple trees and asparagus, are perennial, surviving and flowering for many years.

Know your plants’ specific name (genus and species).

A long green vegetable with several slices
The ‘Armenian’ cucumber, commonly sold as a cucumber, is actually a melon.

In biology, a genus is a taxonomy rank that groups together closely related species. For example, tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are closely related to eggplants (Solanum melongena). In this case, Solanum is the genus that both tomatoes and eggplants belong to.

A species is a group of individuals that are able to reproduce together. All tomatoes belong to the species lycopersicum and are able to cross-pollinate (or transfer pollen between plants) with each other.

In the garden, most crops are different species from one another, but not always. There are several species of squash and two distinct species of kale—meaning some varieties of these crops are not able to cross-pollinate with each other.

On the other hand, Cucumis melo, commonly categorized as a melon, also contains some varieties that are sold as cucumbers (like ‘Armenian’) because fruits of the variety are unsweet and sometimes pickled.

Planting just one variety in a species will help ensure you save pure seed. But if you want to save seeds from more than one variety, knowing your plants’ scientific name will help you determine which ones may cross-pollinate. To save pure seed, you want to prevent cross-pollination between two different varieties in the same species.

The squash commonly grown in the Seed Savers Exchange gardens at #HeritageFarm, for example, could fall into one of three species: Cucurbita maxima, C. moschata, and C. pepo. These species won’t typically cross-pollinate.

On the other hand, Brassica oleracea includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, and kohlrabi, all plants you might think wouldn’t cross-pollinate but actually do. Read up on the cross-pollination habits of the plants you are saving seeds from to ensure you won’t run into issues."

Learn more:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/seed-saving/#know-your-plants

#SolarPunkSunday #CrossPollination #Gardening #CommunityGardens #SeedSaving #KnowYourPlants

Excerpt from Seed Saving: Introduction by the #SeedSavingExchange

"Know Your Plants

Know whether your parent plant is a hybrid or open-pollinated variety.

Open-pollinated varieties are like dog breeds; they will retain their distinct characteristics as long as they are pollinated (or “mated”) with the same “breed”/variety.

Hybrids, which are created by crossing plants of two different varieties, generally do not produce offspring with the same traits as the parent plant. Seeds saved from open-pollinated varieties, on the other hand, will produce plants identical to the parent.

Seed Savers Exchange offers only open-pollinated varieties through its online and print catalog and on The Exchange, its gardener-to-gardener seed swap.

So what are #OpenPollinated varieties, and what is their lifespan? Open-pollinated varieties are like dog breeds; they will retain their distinct characteristics as long as they are pollinated (or “mated”) with the same “breed”/variety.

This means, with a little care and planning, the seeds you produce will be true-to-type, keeping their distinct traits generation after generation as long as they do not cross-pollinate with other varieties of the same species.
Know your plants’ lifespans.

Open-pollinated varieties can be annual, biennial, and perennial.

Plants that flower, set seed, and die in a single growing season—like lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers—are called annuals.

Biennials, such as carrots and onions, don’t flower until their second growing season after they have gone through a cold period called vernalization.

Some long-lived plants, like apple trees and asparagus, are perennial, surviving and flowering for many years.

Know your plants’ specific name (genus and species).

A long green vegetable with several slices
The ‘Armenian’ cucumber, commonly sold as a cucumber, is actually a melon.

In biology, a genus is a taxonomy rank that groups together closely related species. For example, tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are closely related to eggplants (Solanum melongena). In this case, Solanum is the genus that both tomatoes and eggplants belong to.

A species is a group of individuals that are able to reproduce together. All tomatoes belong to the species lycopersicum and are able to cross-pollinate (or transfer pollen between plants) with each other.

In the garden, most crops are different species from one another, but not always. There are several species of squash and two distinct species of kale—meaning some varieties of these crops are not able to cross-pollinate with each other.

On the other hand, Cucumis melo, commonly categorized as a melon, also contains some varieties that are sold as cucumbers (like ‘Armenian’) because fruits of the variety are unsweet and sometimes pickled.

Planting just one variety in a species will help ensure you save pure seed. But if you want to save seeds from more than one variety, knowing your plants’ scientific name will help you determine which ones may cross-pollinate. To save pure seed, you want to prevent cross-pollination between two different varieties in the same species.

The squash commonly grown in the Seed Savers Exchange gardens at #HeritageFarm, for example, could fall into one of three species: Cucurbita maxima, C. moschata, and C. pepo. These species won’t typically cross-pollinate.

On the other hand, Brassica oleracea includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, and kohlrabi, all plants you might think wouldn’t cross-pollinate but actually do. Read up on the cross-pollination habits of the plants you are saving seeds from to ensure you won’t run into issues."

Learn more:
https://seedsavers.org/learn/seed-saving/#know-your-plants

#SolarPunkSunday #CrossPollination #Gardening #CommunityGardens #SeedSaving #KnowYourPlants

So, The Institute of Urban Homesteading closed in May 2026. They have a LOT of useful resources on their website (which will stay up for a while longer). I'll be downloading some of those resources, but I suggest folks check them out while they are still on the Net!

Articles include:

- #Permaculture Principles
- Lead in Your Soil
- Colony Collapse Disorder
- #Chloramine
- Kitchen Botany
- #SeedSaving
- #CompostTea
- Ruby’s Magic Mulch Recipe
- Good Dirt 2016
- Urban Homesteading DIY Guide

FMI:
https://iuhoakland.com/articles/

#SolarPunkSunday #UrbanGardening #UrbanHomesteading #GardeningResources

So, The Institute of Urban Homesteading closed in May 2026. They have a LOT of useful resources on their website (which will stay up for a while longer). I'll be downloading some of those resources, but I suggest folks check them out while they are still on the Net!

Articles include:

- #Permaculture Principles
- Lead in Your Soil
- Colony Collapse Disorder
- #Chloramine
- Kitchen Botany
- #SeedSaving
- #CompostTea
- Ruby’s Magic Mulch Recipe
- Good Dirt 2016
- Urban Homesteading DIY Guide

FMI:
https://iuhoakland.com/articles/

#SolarPunkSunday #UrbanGardening #UrbanHomesteading #GardeningResources

#PleasantvilleNY - #SeedLibrary

#MtPleasantPublicLibrary

"#GrowYourOwn garden with the help of our Seed Library—a collection of quality, regional flower and vegetable seeds that you can 'check out' for free at the Main Library.

What is a Seed Library?

A Seed Library is a collection of flower and vegetable seeds that you can 'check out' for free. Some Seed Libraries include seeds that have been saved by library patrons, or seeds donated from nurseries. We might have those sources one day at Mt. Pleasant Library, but for now we have seeds purchased from quality regional seed producers in #Maine and #AccordNY.

The purpose of a Seed Library is to encourage #SustainableGardening and #biodiversity by providing free access to seeds. These initiatives empower community members to grow their own food; learn #SeedSaving skills; preserve local, rare, or #HeirloomPlant varieties; and reduce reliance on #CommercialSeedCompanies. This helps combat seed #monocultures that threaten the world's food supply.

How does our Seed Library work?

- Go to the Gardening Special Collection at the Main Library and browse our Seed Library binder which includes details about each type of seed we offer.
- Help yourself to up to 5 seed packets per visit.
- Fill out a short form listing which seeds you took and if there are any seeds you want to request so that we can keep our Seed Library well stocked.
- Go and plant a garden!

What kind of seeds do we have?

- Vegetables, such as Amish Paste Organic Tomato, Marketmore and 76 Organic Cucumber
- Herbs, such as Genovese Basil
- Flowers, such as Purple Stem Asters, which are a great source of nectar for #bumblebees and other #pollinators in the #HudsonValley, and #SpottedJoePyeWeed, which is a native, locally sourced perennial that supports #butterfly populations
Check out our Seed Library binder for the full list of seeds we offer!"

FMI:
https://www.mountpleasantlibrary.org/index.php/collections/seed-library

#SolarPunkSunday #SeedSharing #BuildingCommunity #LibrariesRule #GYO #GardeningForPollinators #SeedLibraries

#PleasantvilleNY - #SeedLibrary

#MtPleasantPublicLibrary

"#GrowYourOwn garden with the help of our Seed Library—a collection of quality, regional flower and vegetable seeds that you can 'check out' for free at the Main Library.

What is a Seed Library?

A Seed Library is a collection of flower and vegetable seeds that you can 'check out' for free. Some Seed Libraries include seeds that have been saved by library patrons, or seeds donated from nurseries. We might have those sources one day at Mt. Pleasant Library, but for now we have seeds purchased from quality regional seed producers in #Maine and #AccordNY.

The purpose of a Seed Library is to encourage #SustainableGardening and #biodiversity by providing free access to seeds. These initiatives empower community members to grow their own food; learn #SeedSaving skills; preserve local, rare, or #HeirloomPlant varieties; and reduce reliance on #CommercialSeedCompanies. This helps combat seed #monocultures that threaten the world's food supply.

How does our Seed Library work?

- Go to the Gardening Special Collection at the Main Library and browse our Seed Library binder which includes details about each type of seed we offer.
- Help yourself to up to 5 seed packets per visit.
- Fill out a short form listing which seeds you took and if there are any seeds you want to request so that we can keep our Seed Library well stocked.
- Go and plant a garden!

What kind of seeds do we have?

- Vegetables, such as Amish Paste Organic Tomato, Marketmore and 76 Organic Cucumber
- Herbs, such as Genovese Basil
- Flowers, such as Purple Stem Asters, which are a great source of nectar for #bumblebees and other #pollinators in the #HudsonValley, and #SpottedJoePyeWeed, which is a native, locally sourced perennial that supports #butterfly populations
Check out our Seed Library binder for the full list of seeds we offer!"

FMI:
https://www.mountpleasantlibrary.org/index.php/collections/seed-library

#SolarPunkSunday #SeedSharing #BuildingCommunity #LibrariesRule #GYO #GardeningForPollinators #SeedLibraries

Petrera 🌱: agroecological permaculture hub for food sovereignty, seed saving & hands-on learning. Join the transformation! https://agroecologymap.org/l/452 #Permaculture #Agroecology #FoodSovereignty #SeedSaving #Regenerative

Petrera 🌱: agroecological permaculture hub for food sovereignty, seed saving & hands-on learning. Join the transformation! https://agroecologymap.org/l/452 #Permaculture #Agroecology #FoodSovereignty #SeedSaving #Regenerative

#ScotlandGrows - #ShetlandKale

by Cairi Balmain

"I want to draw your attention to a rare Scottish heritage vegetable called Shetland #Kail / #Kale. I have been eating lots of the young leaves recently and wanted to share my love of this not so commonly known vegetable, its history, why it’s so special, and why it should be a staple in Scottish vegetable gardens.

What is Shetland Kale?

Shetland Kale is one of the most productive crops grown in Shetland and officially is classified as a #cabbage. Traditionally, in Shetland the hearts were eaten like a normal cabbage, while the leaves were given to the cattle and this still continues on some #crofts today. I like to eat the young leaves as it is a waste letting them go tough when you do not have cattle to feed! When they are small and tender, the leaves taste nice and peppery and go very well with other types of kale in meals. I like to make kale crisps in the dehydrator or oven.

What is Its History?

Shetland Kale is the oldest known Scottish variety and has been grown in Shetland since the 17th century. Before the era of cheap oil, all #ShetlandCrofts grew crops including #oats, #bere, #neeps, #potatoes, and Shetland Kale. Due to the challenges of the weather in Shetland, seeds were sown in #PlantieCrubs: circular stone walled enclosures where the plants were protected from wind, frost, rabbits, and grazing animals. The seeds were grown successfully here, then were transplanted into kail yards, also made with stone walls to protect them from the near constant wind! There are still many ruined #KailYards visible in the islands, not used any more but part of the landscape heritage of Shetland.

Why Does it Need Saving?

Shetland Kale has been registered as a #ConservationVariety due to its decline in usage over the past thirty years, and until recently the seed’s survival was dependent on local crofters saving their seed and passing it on. Recently, however, there has been a resurgence of people wanting to grow the heritage seed. Shetland Kale Seed Producers Network has recently released seed that I bought from Planticrub, the local garden centre in Shetland. You can find information on Shetland Kale and where to buy it through the Shetland Kale Growers Seed Network. You also might be lucky and find it in a local #SeedSwap #SeedLibrary or meet.

How to Grow

Since not many people have, or have need of, a stone polycrub these days, sow the seeds like normal brassicas inside the house or greenhouse in March/April. Plant out with the other kale, cabbages, and broccoli in late April/early May and harden off in the usual manner. You can also grow them with successive sowings through the Spring and Summer to keep a constant supply. Shetland Kale takes up a lot of space, so space the plants well or they will take over!

I like to harvest a few leaves at a time off each plant when they are young and tender and leave the heart to develop into a cabbage to eat in the Winter. It makes a unique #kimchi! Shetland Kale is hardy so will survive the Scottish Winter fine outside. Shetlanders normally leave a few plants to go to seed the second year to see the beautiful yellow flowers come out and to harvest the seed. To save the seed from your own Shetland Kale and help save this heritage seed, harvest the pods when they have turned brown and slightly brittle, place on a cloth to prevent seed loss and thresh the pods by rubbing between the hands. Then store in a cool area."

https://scotlandgrowsmagazine.com/2020/10/22/shetland-kale/

#SolarPunkSunday #Scotland #TraditionalFoods #SeedSaving #EndangeredSpecies #GrowYourOwn #SeedSaving

#ScotlandGrows - #ShetlandKale

by Cairi Balmain

"I want to draw your attention to a rare Scottish heritage vegetable called Shetland #Kail / #Kale. I have been eating lots of the young leaves recently and wanted to share my love of this not so commonly known vegetable, its history, why it’s so special, and why it should be a staple in Scottish vegetable gardens.

What is Shetland Kale?

Shetland Kale is one of the most productive crops grown in Shetland and officially is classified as a #cabbage. Traditionally, in Shetland the hearts were eaten like a normal cabbage, while the leaves were given to the cattle and this still continues on some #crofts today. I like to eat the young leaves as it is a waste letting them go tough when you do not have cattle to feed! When they are small and tender, the leaves taste nice and peppery and go very well with other types of kale in meals. I like to make kale crisps in the dehydrator or oven.

What is Its History?

Shetland Kale is the oldest known Scottish variety and has been grown in Shetland since the 17th century. Before the era of cheap oil, all #ShetlandCrofts grew crops including #oats, #bere, #neeps, #potatoes, and Shetland Kale. Due to the challenges of the weather in Shetland, seeds were sown in #PlantieCrubs: circular stone walled enclosures where the plants were protected from wind, frost, rabbits, and grazing animals. The seeds were grown successfully here, then were transplanted into kail yards, also made with stone walls to protect them from the near constant wind! There are still many ruined #KailYards visible in the islands, not used any more but part of the landscape heritage of Shetland.

Why Does it Need Saving?

Shetland Kale has been registered as a #ConservationVariety due to its decline in usage over the past thirty years, and until recently the seed’s survival was dependent on local crofters saving their seed and passing it on. Recently, however, there has been a resurgence of people wanting to grow the heritage seed. Shetland Kale Seed Producers Network has recently released seed that I bought from Planticrub, the local garden centre in Shetland. You can find information on Shetland Kale and where to buy it through the Shetland Kale Growers Seed Network. You also might be lucky and find it in a local #SeedSwap #SeedLibrary or meet.

How to Grow

Since not many people have, or have need of, a stone polycrub these days, sow the seeds like normal brassicas inside the house or greenhouse in March/April. Plant out with the other kale, cabbages, and broccoli in late April/early May and harden off in the usual manner. You can also grow them with successive sowings through the Spring and Summer to keep a constant supply. Shetland Kale takes up a lot of space, so space the plants well or they will take over!

I like to harvest a few leaves at a time off each plant when they are young and tender and leave the heart to develop into a cabbage to eat in the Winter. It makes a unique #kimchi! Shetland Kale is hardy so will survive the Scottish Winter fine outside. Shetlanders normally leave a few plants to go to seed the second year to see the beautiful yellow flowers come out and to harvest the seed. To save the seed from your own Shetland Kale and help save this heritage seed, harvest the pods when they have turned brown and slightly brittle, place on a cloth to prevent seed loss and thresh the pods by rubbing between the hands. Then store in a cool area."

https://scotlandgrowsmagazine.com/2020/10/22/shetland-kale/

#SolarPunkSunday #Scotland #TraditionalFoods #SeedSaving #EndangeredSpecies #GrowYourOwn #SeedSaving

Don't let your summer harvest end, wherever you are in the world! 🌱 Turn this year's success into next year's garden by saving your own seeds. Our blog covers the 5 easiest vegetables to start with, from tomatoes to beans. #SeedSaving

Get all the tips here: https://vegplotter.com/blog/save-your-summer-top-5-seeds-to-collect

Don't let your summer harvest end, wherever you are in the world! 🌱 Turn this year's success into next year's garden by saving your own seeds. Our blog covers the 5 easiest vegetables to start with, from tomatoes to beans. #SeedSaving

Get all the tips here: https://vegplotter.com/blog/save-your-summer-top-5-seeds-to-collect

The few-flowered shooting stars (Primula pauciflora) appear to be setting seed-- step 3 in my plan to grow one million of them!

#gardening #NativePlantsPNW #ShootingStars #SeedSaving

The few-flowered shooting stars (Primula pauciflora) appear to be setting seed-- step 3 in my plan to grow one million of them!

#gardening #NativePlantsPNW #ShootingStars #SeedSaving

@Broadfork Thanks for posting! 🌱

#SolarPunkSunday #Seeds #SeedSaving #SeedStorage

@Broadfork Thanks for posting! 🌱

#SolarPunkSunday #Seeds #SeedSaving #SeedStorage

🌱 Want to garden more sustainably? Saving your own seeds is a great way to close the loop and preserve local varieties! 🌻

Check out our latest guide on how to get started:
https://vegplotter.com/blog/saving-seeds-for-a-sustainable-future

#GrowYourOwn #Sustainability #GardeningTips #SeedSaving

🌱 Want to garden more sustainably? Saving your own seeds is a great way to close the loop and preserve local varieties! 🌻

Check out our latest guide on how to get started:
https://vegplotter.com/blog/saving-seeds-for-a-sustainable-future

#GrowYourOwn #Sustainability #GardeningTips #SeedSaving

🌱 Want to garden more sustainably? Saving your own seeds is a great way to close the loop and preserve local varieties! 🌻 Check out our latest guide on how to get started: vegplotter.com/blog/saving-... #GrowYourOwn #Sustainability #GardeningTips #SeedSaving

🌱 Want to garden more sustainably? Saving your own seeds is a great way to close the loop and preserve local varieties! 🌻 Check out our latest guide on how to get started: vegplotter.com/blog/saving-... #GrowYourOwn #Sustainability #GardeningTips #SeedSaving

Tired of buying seeds every year? Start saving your own! 🌱 It's a powerful act of self-reliance, preserves unique family heirloom varieties, & connects you to generations of growers. Build food security, grow resilient plants, & nurture biodiversity right in your garden. #SeedSaving #HeirloomSeeds