It’s that time of the year! Gardens sleep under snow blankets, farms are well ahead in their crop planning, and seeds are queens of the season – both literally and metaphorically.
As climate change continues to impact lives and threaten crop viability, the importance of building seed genetics adapted to our climate, and strengthening our community networks remain of utter importance. Whether you grow a garden or not, here are a few things you can do to help build seed and community genetics:
- Support local seed producers. You can find a list here of awesome and diverse Quebec seed producers – order soon, they really do fly!
- Participate in local events. Mark your calendars and build community genetics by participating in Seed Fests!
- Fête des Semences de Montréal (Seedy Weekend): 4th and 5th of February, in person at the Planetarium. The Roulant will be holding a kiosque and participating at a table-ronde. Come say hi, discover seed growers, seed biodiversity, and community initiatives! Free!
- Participate in seed libraries. Starting February 6th, the Roulant’s Seed Library will be ready for use and open to all. Feel free to drop by! More info on our seed library here.
Don’t know the right time to start your seeds? Download this free calendar from des Jardins de l’Écoumène. In March, you’ll see that some nightshades, such as eggplants and ground cherries, are ready to be planted!
Let’s celebrate these fab winter queens – among our richest of heritages!
– Magali, Urban Agriculture Programs Manager