Planting Seeds

Local Gardeners Cultivate Community Seed Exchange

Discover the Community Seed Exchange in Sebastopol, a volunteer-led effort promoting local seed sovereignty. Anchored by a grassroots seed library and flourishing garden based at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Sebastopol, the Exchange offers free, non-GMO, and pesticide-free seeds, sourced and grown locally.

Amaranth, Japanese Black Trifle tomatoes, Calendula, and Newberg onions flourish in the Community Seed Exchange garden. Photo by Electra De Peyster

Focusing on preserving biodiversity and fostering community resilience, the CSE aims to challenge corporate seed dominance. Organizers stress the importance of seed saving in adapting to changing climates and securing food sovereignty. The garden supplies most of the seeds for the library, and volunteers plan crops in January, emphasizing performance and diversity.

UPCOMING SEED EXCHANGE EVENTS:

May 22

Cultivating Diversity: Explore the world of root crops including: sweet potatoes, mashua, oca, and jerusalem artichokes.

June 22

Seed Garden Expedition: Take a tour of the community Seed Garden as it reaches its peak in late June! Every plant is cultivated for seed preservation. Discuss the diverse varieties and learn about the art of seed conservation.

Work Parties:  Wednesdays, 4:00–5:30pm

communityseedexchange.org

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

500 Robinson Rd, Sebastopol

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