Thinking about planting a vegetable or flower garden this spring? Checkout some seeds from Syosset Public Library’s (SPL) new Seed Library. Choose from 20 varieties of vegetables (beans, choy, lettuce, tomatoes, peas, peppers, and zucchini); herbs (basil, cilantro, and parsley); and flowers (zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers). Returns not required.
“Gardening has so many benefits. It’s a family activity that brings us closer to nature, offers opportunities to connect and share with other gardeners and the community in general, and can be a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds,” Syosset Library Director Christine Belling said.
Acting on a suggestion from a patron and with the support of the entire SPL team, librarians Nathalie Levin and Brenda Cherry, both enthusiastic gardeners themselves, soon began assembling the seeds and materials necessary for a successful venture.
“Thanks to their efforts, Syosset Public Library joins a growing list of libraries that have established seed libraries and are offering gardening programs for children, teens, and adults,” Belling said. “In doing so, we hope to inspire people of all ages to dig in, get their hands dirty, learn about plants, and be proud of their successes.”
On March 21, Syosset School District residents began to “borrow” up to 10 packets of seeds per family (while supplies last). Pick them up at the Reference Desk or the Children’s Desk. Each packet contains a label with basic directions for that particular seed. Each desk has a binder with more detailed information. Plant your seeds, watch them grow, and reap the rewards throughout the summer. Share your progress and see how fellow Seed Library gardeners are faring at #SPLGrows, or keep in touch via email at splgrows@syossetlibrary.org
Get started and learn more with some virtual or in-person gardening programs for adults, teens, and children that are presented by horticultural experts and open to all.
For adults, there are three virtual programs available:
Grow Your Own
Tuesday, April 26, at 7 p.m.
Learn the basics of successful vegetable starting and get the lowdown on varieties of peppers, tomatoes, and eggplants not typically found in big box stores and garden centers. The first 20 registrants will receive two packets of seeds and two peat pellets (you supply containers and plastic bags for covering your plants). Registration is open now. A “Grab & Grow” program presented by Regina Dlugokencky, Seedsower Farm.
Flower Power: A Seed-Starting Workshop
Tuesday, May 31, at 7 p.m.
Learn the best flower varieties for attracting beneficial insects and pollinators, and start some flowering plants to beautify your garden and make it more environmentally friendly. The first 20 registrants will receive a packet of flower seeds. Registration is open now. A “Grab & Grow” program presented by Regina Dlugokencky, Seedsower Farm.
Putting Your Garden to Bed
September 22, at 7 p.m.
Presenter, Linda Reilly, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County.
For teens, online:
Virtual Container Gardening
Wednesday, April 6 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Meet on Zoom to learn how to garden in a limited space. Registration for SSD residents began March 9. Presenter, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County.
For children in kindergarten to grade 5, in-person:
It’s Not Easy Being Green
Thursday, April 21 from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Follow your nose and other senses to learn about the adaptations that allow plants to thrive in so many different habitats, and plant something of your own during this in-person program. Limited registration for SSD residents begins April 7. Presenter, Old Westbury Gardens.
The seed library is for Syosset School District residents only; gardening programs are open to all. For more information about these and other SPL programs or to register, visit www.syossetlibrary.org and click on the Calendar of Events or call 516-921-7161.
