The Melrose Seed Library
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Gardeners are full of hope, faith, and optimism. They plant seeds and sprinkle them with water and positive energy.
As the harvest begins you might want to consider saving and sharing your seeds.
The Melrose Library has repurposed its old card catalog cabinet - for the younger generation, this was how you looked up the book you wanted. The little cubbies have different seeds – all free and open to everyone with or without a library card.
Joan Lounsbury, a retired Melrose library administrative assistant, and lifelong gardener, as well as the Melrose Community Garden group and about 30 volunteers, organize and run the seed library. It is one of the oldest seed libraries in the country.
Each spring High Mowing Seeds in VT donates packets of seeds that translate into about 4000 seed packets available in March.
For first-time savers easy seed saving – mushy tomatoes are great for seeds as well as beans, zinnas, and marigolds.
The library website is packed with info on seed saving. There are always successes and failures but every garden is filled with hope and a look to a bright future.
The Seed Library has a return box for harvested seeds and saved baggies. Harvest and dry your seeds; put them into an envelope or bag labeled with the plant name, year of harvest, and any additional helpful information! Envelopes and bags are available at the Seed Catalog!
The seed library is educational and has an element of social justice because it is free – food for all!
Won’t you add to this wonderful Melrose resource and start saving and sharing your seeds?????
