Seed Library

Stop in anytime we’re open and browse the current seed offerings; seeds are separated by herbs, ornamentals, vegetables, and fruits. Take up to 2 packets of seeds per household. Feel free to divide packets, and take only what you intend to use. Envelopes and pens are provided for labeling.

Questions on how to start your seeds? We also have gardening books available in the regular collection. If you have leftover seeds, you can return them to the seed library (labeled).

After your seedlings grow, consider saving seeds and donating back to the seed library so seeds can be shared seeds next year. Scroll down for how-to advice on seed saving.

Want to share pictures of your seed-growing journey? We’d love to include your pictures on our website and social media accounts. Please send any images you are willing to share to reference@blackstonelibrary.org.

With generous donations from Seed Savers Exchange, High Seed Mowing, UConn Master Gardeners/Ocean State Job Lot, Natureworks, and Branford community members, we are able to offer a wide variety of seeds for free. The idea for the seed library was initially proposed by Branford resident Ivy Kim, and she has partnered with staff on development and implementation. We are grateful for her support and enthusiasm.

If you or your organization has seeds to share, please consider donating them. We welcome donations of any ornamental or vegetable seeds. Simply place your seeds in an envelope or container with the type of seed, variety, and date of harvest.

FAQs

Where can I donate seeds?
Blackstone Library Circulation Desk, located on the Ground Floor.

What should I include when donating?
Seeds must come in a container or envelope which notes:

  • Name of the plant
  • Variety name (if applicable)
  • Date of seed harvest

Can I include more information than required?
Yes! More information is valuable, and welcome. Some examples of what to include are:

  • The scientific name of a plant
  • Relevant provenance details
  • Special planting instructions Characteristics that make this seed especially valuable.

Is there a minimum number of seeds I can donate?
There is no minimum! But, if you are able to donate more, it is very helpful so that multiple growers can plant out enough seeds to ensure genetic diversity

Will you be sorting through the seeds?
Yes. We will remove seeds that are locally invasive species and varieties known to be illegal to save under intellectual property or patent law. If your seeds fall under this category, please do not donate them. If you are unsure if your seeds/the variety falls under this category, please contact us at alopez@blackstonelibrary.org.

Saving Seeds

Seed Saving At-a-Glance:

  • Collect and gather seeds
  • Label the seed packets:
    • Type of seed (ex. tomatillo)
    • Date harvested (ex. 7/2023)
    • Additional details are welcome
  • Drop off the seed packets at the Circulation Desk, on the ground floor
    • If you would prefer to store the seeds at home, please be sure to follow seed-specific guidelines (ex. dark and cool area)

“Seed saving” is the process of collecting seeds from one harvest to use during the next planting season. There is a long history for why seed saving is urgent and valuable to many cultures. For seed libraries, seed saving encourages community sharing, native plant propagation, and a self-sustaining system.

Online Resources:

Where to Start (these are a bit easier to save):

  • Tomatoes
  • Beans
  • Peas
  • Peppers
  • Lettuce
  • Marigolds
  • Sunflowers
  • Cilantro

In the spring (around late February), we will offer the “saved” seeds in addition to any donations we receive. Thank you for your contributions and support!

Still have questions? Contact Alondra Lopez, alopez@blackstonelibrary.org, 203-488-1441.