Spring is approaching and with it, the return of Mississauga Library’s seventh annual Seed Library program. As part of this program, Mississauga residents can donate seeds, grow their gardening skills in online workshops and order seeds free of charge to plant. Thanks to seed donations from the community, seed packages were distributed to over 550 residents across the city in 2020, helping them experience the joy of growing their own plants, fruit, vegetables and herbs.

The library is now accepting seed donations in preparation for this year’s program. Residents are not required to donate seeds in order to request seeds from the Seed Library; however, seed donations from residents who have previously participated in the program, as well as all seed donations, keep the Seed Library self-sustaining.

The Seed Library accepts any seed donations; however, the following donations are preferred:

·       Heirloom, open-pollinated and non-GMO

·       Edible, decorative and herb varieties

·       Seeds that are less than four years old

Seed donations can be made through the book return box at all Mississauga library locations (excluding Hazel McCallion Central Library).

Seeds should be dropped off in a sealed envelope and clearly labelled with the type, year and location where they were collected. All donated seeds will be quarantined for 72 hours as per Peel Public Health advice.

The request form to order seeds from the Seed Library will go live on Saturday, March 6, 2021, at 1 p.m. at mississaugalibrary.ca/seeds. Residents can receive up to four packets of seeds per request, while supplies last. 

As part of the Seed Library program, residents can also take part in online workshops being offered in March. The workshops are free and suitable for all ages. Registration is required.

Online Workshops and Dates:

Introduction to Organic Gardening	March 6	10 to 11:30 a.m.	Register
Top Native Plants	March 6	2 to 3 p.m.	Register
Sustainable Balcony Gardening	March 13	10 to 11:30 a.m.	Register
My Gardening Evolution	March 13	2 to 3:15 p.m.	Register

To learn more about the Seed Library and how to harvest your seeds for donation, contact seed.library@mississauga.ca or visit mississaugalibrary.ca/seeds.