Seed it Forward aims to grow healthy plants and community connections. Pictured are Jacob Pichler, Natalie Stephenson, Gill Thorsen, Kerri-Ann Organ, Jan Griffiths, Claire Bassett, and Renee Pichler.
Photo by
Ryan Bellingham
Kyabram residents can borrow more than books from the library, with a collection of local seeds now available for free.
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A group of volunteers have formed Seed it Forward, an initiative that aims to promote gardening and robust plants in the region.
With the initial work led by Natalie Stephenson, 15 members now meet to package donated seeds and discuss gardening over a cuppa.
Volunteer Nikole Ward said the members enjoyed sorting the seeds, which the group hoped would be re-donated from successful plants and lead to stronger plantings.
Seed it Forward volunteers Natalie Stephenson, Renee Pichler, and Nikole Warde.
Photo by
Ryan Bellingham
“Seeds that have been acclimatised to this area will go on to be prolific, and have a better chance of being pest-resistant,” she said.
“We’ve basically done an autumn-winter seed drive. We’re going to have to keep it really seasonal.
“Eating seasonal is really good for your body, too.”
Members of the group have varying levels of gardening experience, ranging from the devout to beginners.
Volunteer Renee Pichler has gardened for many years, and said the seed library helped to lower the barrier to entry for those with a budding green thumb.
Renee Pichler with the seed library installation.
Photo by
Ryan Bellingham
“Why it’s important is it makes seeds accessible for everybody,” she said.
“Anybody can come into the library, choose some flowers or vegetables and grow their seeds at home to inspire the next generation of gardeners.”
In true community spirit, other groups have assisted Seed it Forward, with the seed library box made by the Kyabram Men’s Shed and decorated by a library craft group.
Fab Flowers Florist and Nursery owner Sue Walley has donated seeds, and the Kyabram Garden Club has given the group support.
The group currently meets when its members are free, and plans to hold a seed packaging session at the Kyabram library on Saturday, September 13 from 10am.
“It’s a great place to catch up and meet with other curious, experimental and experienced gardeners,” Ms Pichler said.
“If anyone’s interested in coming and having a look, you can put in as much or as little as you want. Everybody is welcome.”
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