Seedy Saturday is back in the Similkameen on March 9 at the Cawston Community Hall.
The Grist Mill and Gardens are once again hosting the annual seed-sharing community event.
The annual gathering was started 35 years ago by Sharon Rempel, who was at the time the head interpreter for the Grist Mill. Since then, the event has grown in popularity and spread across Canada.
“The last few years have shown how important it is to grow adaptable and resilient crops in our sometimes harsh and unpredictable climate,” says Chris Mathieson, event organizer and general manager of the Grist Mill. “Often, it’s the seeds that have been saved year-over-year by enthusiastic backyard growers that show the most ability to handle a wide range of conditions. Seeds from large seed catalogues are often bred for a much more narrow range of conditions.”
This event serves as a platform for gardeners, farmers, and environmental enthusiasts to exchange seeds, knowledge, and foster a sense of community.
In addition to meeting with other people from the area to swap seeds, there are always a range of tables set up for local organizations to share their insights and knowledge.
This year features groups including the Keremeos Garden Club, Keremeos Inclusive Gardens, Keremeos Public Library, Lower Similkameen Community Services Society, Okanagan Seed Savers, Seeds of Diversity, the Invasive Species Society, and the Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society.
Attendees can anticipate a curated selection of seeds, bulbs, gardening supplies, artisanal goods, and more thanks to a wide variety of notable local and regional businesses such as Braden Hill Orchard Farm, Westbank Harvest, Crowsnest Woodcraft, Pheasant Acres, Room to Grow, Peter McDonald, Moolman Flower Farm, Mari Crafts, Heart and Solace, Quail and Vine, Blooming Creek, and the BC Eco Seed Coop.
Community members are strongly encouraged to bring seeds for exchange to contribute to the communal seed table, a cornerstone of the Seedy Saturday experience since it’s inception.
This practice not only enriches the genetic diversity of our local gardens but also symbolizes the shared commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship within our community.
Admission is by donation with partial proceeds going to support both Cawston Hall as well as the work of Seeds of Diversity.
The Seeds of Diversity’s Canadian Seed Library project, which contains over 2,300 regional and rare varieties, has a number of seeds that originated in the area.
The event runs from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Those interested in securing a vendor spot or contributing to the seed swap are encouraged to contact the Grist Mill and Gardens promptly at info@oldgristmill.ca or
For additional information about Seedy Saturday and other Grist Mill and Gardens activities, please visit their website: http://www.oldgristmill.ca.