Seed Swap

Many of Christchurch’s keen gardeners look forward to the Southern Seed Exchange’s annual spring seed swap. For Seed Exchange members it is the much anticipated day when they can collect their seed orders and fossick around the swap table . It’s hard not to be greedy when there are so many varieties to choose from. For my annual subscription of $20.00 I received several brown and white envelopes carefully packaged by diligent volunteers. Many thanks to the guardian seed savers, and all the people who helped write newsletters, seed lists and fill orders. I can’t wait to start sowing my seeds, as many are new varieties that I’m growing for the first time.

Spring Sunshine at Number 4
This year the seed swap was held at 4 Riccarton Ave. Many Soil and Health members will remember this house fondly as it was once the home of Matt Morris, our current branch president. The day couldn’t have been better, the air was soft and warm, and full of sunshine. People gathered eagerly around the swap table, seeking out interesting plants, cuttings and seeds. I picked up some unusual black and white striped runner beans. These will have to wait until next year however, as I have already sown a variety called ‘Devils Defiance’.

SSE Fieldtrips and Monthly Get-Togethers
In addition to maintaining its seed bank the Southern Seed Exchange has recently started holding fieldtrips and monthly get-togethers . Unfortunately I couldn’t make it to Martin’s fieldtrip on seaweeds (edible seaweeds and seaweeds for the garden). There is a chance he could be running it again in November, so if you’re interested in this event, or would like to get on the mailing list for future events ring Martin on 03 325 1310 or email: southernseed@paradise.net.nz