Flora, food, and beautiful landscaping ideas can be planted thanks to The Woodlands Township Seed Library

THE WOODLANDS, TX – In one of its quieter programs that add beauty and benefit to its residents, The Woodlands Township plays home to a community-driven Seed Library. This free, self-serve resource offers an easy way to start or grow your garden. Residents are welcome to take up to three seed packets per visit, plant them at home and, if possible, save and return seeds to share with others.

The library is located in the main lobby of The Woodlands Township Townhall, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd, and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis

This Seed Library, provided by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with local seed savers, gardeners, and horticulturalists contributing, offers free seeds and resources for planting, growing, harvesting and seed saving. Everyone is welcome to check out seeds from the library and encouraged to return seeds from their harvest.

To take full advantage of the Seed Library, first choose what you can use; there is a limit of 3 seed packs per person per visit, and availability and selection of seeds will change throughout the year. Second, grow what you brought home, planting the seeds in soil with lots of sun and water. Third, save the seeds from what you grow; extra seeds can be donated back to the library. Store-bought or hand-collected, simply place your seeds in a securely closed package along with a completed donation form into the donation bin.

“We cannot accept hybrid or GMO seeds; this includes seeds from grocery store produce. These seeds are not suitable for donation as most produce is grown from hybrid varieties, and the resulting plant may not be the same variety from which the seeds were harvested,” said department representatives. “Additionally, we cannot accept seeds of invasive species, and we cannot accept patented seeds or seeds protected by the Plant Variety Protection Act. We will accept all other seeds; however, we are most interested in native plants, edible plants, and plants for pollinators.

The Seed Library empowers residents to grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Additionally, it supports food security and improves access to the freshest, healthiest food possible. Through it, you can support native pollinators by increasing chemical-free flowers and crops at home, and also connect along with other residents to community resources for planting, growing, harvesting and seed saving.