From the Westport Farmers’ Market:

 On Thursday, January 28th the Westport Farmers’ Market will celebrate 2021 by hosting our annual seed exchange in honor of National Seed Exchange day.

“Collecting, sharing, and growing seeds saved by our very own shoppers, farmers, and vendors – especially heirloom varieties – involves the community personally in the promotion of local food and flora,” said Lori Cochran-Dougall, executive director of the WFM. “This year more than ever we want to seed the year with love and health.”

The public is invited to bring seeds they have saved from their own gardens or simply take home a few saved by others. WFM farmers will donate seeds from their favorite crops for the community to try at home. All seeds except those of invasive species* are welcome, however, the market is requesting  people to bring and take home heirloom or organic varieties.

“Heirloom seeds are critical to reclaiming of our food system,” continued Cochran-Dougall. “These are open-pollinated plants that have been passed down from generation to generation without human intervention or manipulation. They taste better, are more nutritious, and help protect plant diversity.”

The seed exchange will run from 10 to 2 (or until all seeds are shared) Thursday, January 28th at Gilbertie’s, 7 Sylvan Avenue, Westport. Experts will be on hand to informally discuss the importance of seed saving.

*For a list of plants considered invasive in Connecticut, please visit the Connecticut Invasive Plant Working Group at UConn here: https://cipwg.uconn.edu/invasive_plant_list/#