Library is accepting dry seeds for Seed Library
Maryville Public Library is now accepting clean seeds harvested from healthy, mature plants in Nodaway and adjacent counties for our Seed Library. Please review the instructions below for a successful harvest!
How to harvest and donate seeds:
1. Select healthy vegetable plants, herbs, or flowers that are fully mature. Seeds from tomatoes (especially heirloom), peas, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and native flowers and plants are great for beginners. Avoid seeds from diseased plants, or hybrid seeds (F₁), as offspring from hybrids typically segregate and fail to match the parent plant’s traits.
2. For flowers: Wait until the seeds are fully mature and ready for harvest (usually when the flower heads have dried out and turned brown. Cut the flower heads and place them in a paper bag or container to catch any falling seeds.
3. Spread vegetable or other seeds out in a single layer on a clean, dry surface, away from direct sunlight. Allow seeds to air dry completely over 1-2 weeks, depending upon humidity levels. Eliminate seeds that are smaller and lighter than their peers, as they may be nonviable.
4. Remove any chaff, debris, or fruit flesh from the seeds by either rubbing them gently between your fingers or by using a sieve.
5. Ensure the seeds are fully dry before storing them to prevent mold and rot. After dry and removing debris, seeds should always be stored airtight in a cool, dark place.
6. Place in envelopes labeled with the common plant name and variety, month/year saved, essential planting instructions, including spacing and sprout time, and your name.
7. Donate to the Library and come back next planting season!
Free online resources:
Grow Native, by the Missouri Prairie Foundation
Native Plants for Your Landscape, by Missouri Department of Conservation
NWMO Master Gardeners (University of Missouri Extension Office)
Northwest Missouri Master Gardeners (Group Page)
Library books on Gardening and Saving Seeds:
Beginning Seed Saving for the Home Gardener, by Jim Ulger Call #: 635 Ula
The Complete Guide to Saving Seeds, by Robert Gough (on order)
Saving Vegetable Seeds: Harvest, Clean, Store, and Plant Seeds from Your Garden, by Fern Marshall Bradley (Storey Basics Series) Currently available on Libby
Native Plants of the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 500 Species for the Garden, by Alan Branhagen. Call #635.9 Bra
100 Plants to Feed the Birds, by Laura Erickson Call# 598.072 Eri
Epic Tomatoes, by Craig LeHoullier (Currently available on Libby.)
The Beginner’s Guide to Growing Heirloom Vegetables, by Marie Iannotti (on order)
