Who is ready to shake off that winter chill? I am and have been dreaming of the sweet smell of hyacinths and vibrant blooms of tulips for the past couple winter months. February, although the shortest month of the year, always seems to be the longest for me. The damp cold really gets into my bones, and it has me wanting to hunker down and not leave the comfort of my couch and fireplace.
Come March, I will start getting antsy. I start planning out my vegetable garden and annual flower displays as soon as a glimmer of spring is on the horizon. I struggle to not clear my beds on that first warm day, but I know the pollinators need just a little bit longer to stay safe. Since, as we all know, those temps never stay warm. So, while I dream of warmer weather, I start browsing online for new seeds and plants. I have a really bad Esty seed addiction and always end up with way more than I could ever use. I try to spread my love among friends and pass out seeds, but I typically have even more left over. I am sure I am not the only person out there with this problem! So why not share with fellow gardeners with the same passion?
Last year, we started a public seed exchange at our Welcome Center at Clary Gardens, located in the restroom building. This was a huge hit! We had several large seed donations from local greenhouses, as well as many individual seed donations that made for a great selection. Piggy backing off of this idea, we have decided to host a public Family Seed Exchange. Everyone is welcome to bring leftover seeds, or favorite seeds to share with fellow gardeners and help stock the seed exchange.
And to make this day extra special, it also falls on National Children’s Craft Day and National Learn About Butterflies Day. With this in mind, we will have a few spring crafts for children to do, as well as information about our local butterflies and plants that can help you attract them to your garden.
Written by Jodi Shrimplin, lead gardener and educator at Clary Gardens.
Thoughts?? Contact Jodi at plantingseeds@clarygardens.org