UNITY — The Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association is hosting its annual Seed Swap & Scion Exchange. This community event celebrates discovering new fruit tree and seed varieties, and helps participants learn about seed saving and stewardship. It is a great way for community members, whether they’re brand-new to gardening or full-time farmers, to kick off the growing season. The Seed Swap & Scion Exchange is free, open to the public, and is held at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center at 294 Crosby Brook Road in Unity on Sunday, March 30 from noon to 4 p.m.
Individuals, farms and organizations from across Maine and the Northeast bring their seeds, scionwood (fruit tree clippings that are used to propagate new plants) and plant cuttings to share. Participants don’t need to bring their own seeds or plant cuttings in order to bring seed or scionwood home — there is always plenty to go around!
A wide range of vegetable, herb and flower seeds; as well as a number of native plant seeds are regularly available. There are typically over 150 types of scionwood available to orchardists and individuals with fruit trees in their homes or communities!
Participants who donate to the Maine Heritage Orchard, MOFGA’s preservation and educational orchard, will receive a custom grafting (the process of producing a new fruit tree with scionwood) from MOFGA staff and volunteers. House plant cuttings, kombucha starters, sourdough starters and other items for sharing regularly make an appearance as well.
“The Seed Swap & Scion Exchange is a beloved community event, and one of my favorite days of the year,” said Anna Libby, MOFGA’s community education director.
“It’s a chance to connect with others, learn something new, find a new variety for your garden or orchard, and share your favorites with the community. Plus, it’s a great reminder that spring weather will be here soon and we’ll all be able to spend time tending our outdoor spaces.”
This event also features workshops and demonstrations from experienced orchardists and gardeners. Hot drinks will be available, and B&T Bakery will sell their baked goods to keep participants full and happy as they explore the day’s offerings.
Learn more about the Seed Swap & Scion Exchange on MOFGA’s website (mofga.org/trainings/annual-events/seed-swap-and-scion-exchange), and check out volunteer opportunities to support this event’s programming at mofga.vomo.org/opportunity/seed-swap-scion-exchange.
The snow date for the event is April 6.