How does the seed library work?
The seed library is located at Altona Library.
Welcome to your community seed library! By ‘borrowing’ a packet you are making a commitment to return some seeds to the library at the end of the season.
It is important to take this commitment seriously as the seed library cannot continue if stock is not replaced. Pop a note in your diary for when your seeds are ready to harvest and return. You can return a different variety to the seed you originally borrowed.
I don’t know how to grow or save seeds!
We’re here to help! My Smart Garden is a free sustainable gardening education program that will help you grow food, shelter your home from the sun and wind, create home for native plants and animals, use water wisely and reduce waste.
Hobsons Bay Libraries EnviroCentre have an extensive collection of resources on seed saving to help you grow, harvest and return your seeds.
How do I get involved?
This seed library is managed by people like you for the Hobsons Bay gardening community. Feel free to spread the word, organise these shelves and arrange seed swapping get-togethers. Small, portable seed libraries are available for loan to community events.
How to use the Seed Library
Borrow a Packet
Please consider others by taking no more than three packets each season.
Plant and Enjoy
Be sure to check what you’ve grown before eating food plants.
Harvest
Leave one plant to go to seed to harvest.
Re-seed the Library
Package your seeds in the envelopes provided. Put a small pinch in each and label with the variety, your name and date saved.
Seeds to Share
Don’t share seeds for species that are considered weeds.
These seeds grow well in Hobsons Bay and have been generously shared by local gardeners. We hope they inspire you to try something new. By growing, saving and sharing these seeds you are adapting to a changing climate and preserving our seed heritage for future generations.