How The Seed Lending Library Works
Borrow Some Seeds
It's simple to borrow seeds from the library.
It's simple to borrow seeds from the library.
- Come to the Fowler Branch of the Concord Free Public Library.
- Take a packet of each type you'd like to borrow (limit of 5 per person).
- Go home and get planting!
Grow Your Seeds
Information on planting and harvesting the seeds we provide can be found on their packaging.
Save Seeds
Once you've grown your seeds and enjoyed their bounty, plan to use 1-2 of your best plants for seed harvesting. To learn how to save seeds from various vegetables, herbs and flowers, explore our Seed Saving section. We also offer classes. Please check the calendar here.
Return Saved Seeds
Place the seeds you collected in an envelope (we have some at the library for this purpose) and write down the following information:
Information on planting and harvesting the seeds we provide can be found on their packaging.
- Start your seeds indoors: Some seeds should be planted indoors in containers or flats and transplanted outside later when the weather gets warmer. If you are unfamiliar with this practice, The Art of Doing Stuff has a nice set of photos to illustrate the process.
- Direct sow your seeds outdoors: Many seeds can be planted directly outside, but check planting instructions to see when is the best time to get started. Best times depending on your zone. Concord, MA is Zone 6. Check your zone here.
Save Seeds
Once you've grown your seeds and enjoyed their bounty, plan to use 1-2 of your best plants for seed harvesting. To learn how to save seeds from various vegetables, herbs and flowers, explore our Seed Saving section. We also offer classes. Please check the calendar here.
Return Saved Seeds
Place the seeds you collected in an envelope (we have some at the library for this purpose) and write down the following information:
- Seed name and variety (e.g., bean, cranberry bush)
- Where the seed came from (e.g., my garden, my friends' garden)
- Date the seed was harvested (e.g., harvest date: Sept. 30, 2018)