Spring into the growing season with seed and food displays, presentations on seed saving, propagation techniques and organic gardening on Seedy Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Exploration Place.
Gardeners can buy and sell seeds and find out more about being an active part of their food chain during the event.
Prince George Community Seed Collective was formed last year to grow and save seeds of local food crops.
"We need to be the keepers of our seeds, seeds we know will grow well here, seeds that are not genetically tampered with, patented, or may be discontinued at any time," said organizer Jovanka Djordjevich. "The more engaged we are in the full growing cycle, the more resilient our community will be."
In the last few years, many have responded to the call to action and small, seed growing businesses, community seed saving groups, such as the local Collective and Seedy Saturday events are sprouting up around the province, Djordjevich added.
Anyone interested in gardening, food and seeds is welcome to attend. Bring seeds for the seed swap labeled with the variety, original source of seed, year harvested and contact information of the grower.
Four educational talks are scheduled during Seedy Saturday.
10:15 a.m. A Year in A Seed Saver's Garden with Wendy McRae
Planning, planting, storing, and tracking your own seed to grow your food.
11:15 a.m. From Snips to Slips with Andrea Eastham
Learn about pruning basics and using snips from your trees and plants to propagate more trees and plants.
12:15 p.m.
Bring a lunch and join others for this no host seed gathering. Offering a time to chat and connect with other seed lovers. Bring catalogues, share seed orders and trade seeds.
1:15 p.m. Principles of Organic Gardening with Yvonna Breed
Learn about methods used at a local certified organic farm including soil preparation, composting, crop rotation, cover cropping, mulching and disease and pest prevention.
2:15 p.m. Xeriscaping with Grace Morrice
Learn about xeriscaping, the principles of xeriscaping, plant varieties, mulching, and more.
A concession is available by Twisted Cork Restaurant.
The National Film Board film The World According to Monsanto will be shown at 3:15 p.m.
Seedy Saturday is a free Community Gardens Prince George event hosted by The Exploration Place as part of B.C. Heritage Week.
