If you haven’t visited the seed library, you’re missing out! For the past two years, the Greenville Library System Berea branch has housed 60+ varieties of seeds, packaged with planting and harvesting tips. Seed packets are available to library patrons, free of charge, year-round.
On Sept. 18, we are celebrating all things seed library at the Seed Library Extravaganza. Visit the Berea library branch between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for family-friendly games, activities, and prizes. Clemson SNAP-Ed will have seed samples of North Georgia candy roaster squash, green striped Cushaw squash and Seminole pumpkin snacks and treats. Local artist Jessica Lancaster will be doing a live painting that will be given away at the end of the event. In addition to all the activities 2019 seeds will be cleared out. This event is open to the public and completely free.
Why plant a fall garden? The benefits are numerous. Below are just a few:
- It’s a great way to get outside — Time spent with nature is great for physical and mental health.
- The whole family can get involved — Planting a seed, caring for a seedling, and harvesting food is a great way to learn about plant lifecycles, the responsibilities involved in growing things, and to connect young people to where their food comes from.
- Beat the heat — If you’re not fond of summer heat, gardening in the fall is a great option. Lower temperatures mean less pest pressure and slower weed growth. Most soil tends to hold water better in cooler temperatures, so you’ll water your veggies less as well.
Start small. Gardening doesn’t have to be a big undertaking — plant a few of the things you most enjoy eating and see how it goes. All you need is some sunshine, soil and seeds.
Have questions about the seed library, fall gardening, or the event? Contact chaler@greenvillecounty.org.
The Greenville Seed Library program launched in February 2019 as a partnership between the Greenville Library System and Greenville County Soil and Water Conservation District. This program offers seeds through the Book Mobile and at pop up events at other branches. For more program information visit https://www.greenvillelibrary.org/seed-library .
