What is a Seed Swap?

Definition of a Seed Swap

A Seed Swap is an event where farmers, gardeners, and plant enthusiasts share and exchange seeds, cuttings, scions, and all other reproducing plant parts. Seed swaps are an excellent opportunity to discover new, localized varieties, increase diversity in your growing, and meet with other avid growers in your community. 

What Should I Bring? 

Most all plant seeds and varieties are welcome at a seed swap. Typically, folks may bring seeds they have saved, purchased seeds that they want to exchange, and knowledge on how to grow and save seeds from the plant. 

Seed Storage

Seeds may be brought to the event in bags, jars, packets, bowels, or any other vessel that can be easily labeled and transported. Airtight jars and bags labeled clearly are ideal. Those who bring seeds will be responsible for collecting the vessel they brought materials in at the end of the conference or consider it donated to the open community.  

Seed Labeling

Please clearly label all seed materials with the:

• • plant name

  • variety

  • location

  • year harvested

Seed varieties that are not ideal for a swap may include:

~ Seeds saved from Hybrid or F1 varieties - these will not breed true to type and should be labeled as F1 Hybrids if shared. 

~Seeds that do not meet the community agreements for sharing. i.e., Varieties with a known variety patent

~ Please note: It is unlikely that you will have genetically engineered seed or "GMO" seed -- as those varieties require contract agreements to purchase.

Unknown Viability Bin  - Bring those old seeds! We will have a designated station for old seeds with potentially low germination rates for those of us who want to take a chance on them. 

Taking Seed Home from the Seed Swap

Typically, materials like small packets, pens, labels, and spoons for transferring small amounts are provided, but if you have a preferred container, please feel welcome to bring it.  

Share in the Spirit of Reciprocity

Please feel free to take seed, and also, please leave enough for others. 

How Many Seeds to Take? 

The number of seeds to bring depends on the amount available at the swap and the number of plants needed to save seed. If you would like a larger quantity of seed, please seek out the grower. 

Learning Opportunity: Population Sizes for Viable Seed

You can refer to the Southern Exposure Seed Saving for Home Use Guide for more detailed information on population size requirements for saving viable seed.