But the ground is frozen, how can we be talking about gardening? In fact, it’s the perfect time to start your seeds indoors before planting in the Spring. The Aurora Public Library District (APLD) will be host to a seed swap from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 5. Customers can visit any Library location to pick up free seed packets or donate seeds they don’t plan on using.
What is a seed swap? Librarian Janet Stephens provides the answer. “It’s like a potluck, but with seeds! Great for both avid and aspiring gardeners.” The seeds are generously donated by seed companies, many of which specialize in heirloom varieties, and home gardeners. Attendees can expect to take home a variety of warm and cool weather vegetable seeds as well as herb and flower seeds. Experienced gardeners can try something different, while new gardeners get basic care instructions for all the seeds they receive. Master Gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension Service will be at the event to answer questions and provide expert help.
The Library’s West Branch has been host to a seed swap for several years. Last year the program expanded to include seed kits at all locations. Megan Cavitt, librarian at Eola Road Branch, organized the low-contact event. “The Seed Swap has been popular at West Branch, and our Seed Swap kits in 2021 were a huge hit at all Library locations.” Due to the popularity, this year’s event will take place at all Library locations.
If you need more gardening help, save the date for our virtual event February 8 at 6:30 p.m.. A University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener will show how to start plants indoors from seeds, including soil preparation, container selection, lighting options and troubleshooting. Starting your own seedlings for the garden is a great way to save money and grow varieties of plants not usually found in stores or garden centers!
Once your plants are established, you’ll want to keep them at their best. Master gardeners will be host to a virtual event about composting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 8. Participants can discover its benefits and learn how to turn their kitchen and landscape waste into high-quality compost to enrich the soil and nurture the garden.
So, dig out those gardening tools and pull out those gloves! If you want your Spring garden to look its best, now is the time for the Library to help you get started. Visit our events page www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events for more information and to register for the virtual gardening events.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.