Seedy Saturday, sow much for so little

We had another successful Seedy Saturday at the Museum. Saturday March 16.  It was time to think about sowing seeds for this spring’s garden. There were so many benefits waiting for people at this free local event. We had almost double the vendors from last year and attendance was double, making it the best attended Seedy Saturday ever.  The event was a joint venture between the Fergus & District Horticultural Society and the Elora and Salem Horticultural Society.

“More and more people are growing their own gardens today,” said Jude Dowling, one of the three organizers of Seedy Saturday. “Admission was free. The event was fun and inexpensive. You could swap or exchange seeds at the exchange table. Or buy them from the seed companies at the event.”

There were two exchange tables dedicated to every type of plant from flowering plants and shrubs to herbs and vegetables. A great mix of vegetables, flowers, annuals, and perennials.

Then there were the vendors, almost double that from last year. You could pick and choose from three workshops at this year’s show or get educated on the many community services in the area. This has become a very popular event.

“If you couldn’t find what you were looking for at the exchange tables, there were seed vendors at the show. We had local garden centres, farms, nurseries, greenhouses, a fruit tree grower, and vendors with garden related crafts and ornaments,” said Fred Mallet, the chair on the organizing committee. “You could find soil enhancers, worm compost, bee houses, honey, beeswax products, garden tools and even garden signs. There was something for everyone.”

Local community groups were on hand to give advice on gardening. It didn’t matter what level your experience, the show offered free advice for the beginner up to the most experienced gardener. The Guelph-Wellington Master Gardeners were also on hand to answer any questions you might have. 

“If you lacked the space, you could venture over to the CW Community Garden Network table or the CW Food Forest,” said Sharon Leggett, the third organizer. “They could get you access to land for your own garden.”

Finally, the Neighbourwoods Tree Trust was available to educate everyone on the merits of replacing and increasing the tree canopy in our neighborhoods and protecting “heritage” trees in our community. There was something for everyone.

You could “park” your kids at the supervised children’s activity corner while you toured the show or attended workshops. The organizers thought of everything. It was a great day.

Ken Johnston