Seed Swap
May Arboretum Society

The Wilbur D. May Arboretum will host a seed exchange hosted by the May Arboretum Society, a nonprofit organization in Reno.

Through educational materials, attendees can exchange locally grown seeds and learn more about seed health and growing techniques.

The community is invited to come and take part in the May Arboretum Society's Seed Swap on April 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Wilbur D. May Arboretum Ranch House, located at 1595 N Sierra Street in Reno.

The May Arboretum Society a local nonprofit organization in northern Nevada says that is committed to the life, growth, and long-term sustainability of the Wilbur D. May Arboretum.

They say that although walk-ins are welcome and the event is free, attendees are urged to register on this page on their website.

The Seed Swap offers gardeners of all skill levels the opportunity to share knowledge, trade seeds, and add plants that are adapted to their local climate.

Attendees can learn about seed viability, storage, and best practices while exchanging seeds from their own gardens for new types.

One way for people to take part in the Seed Swap is by:

  1. Gathering seeds from their garden and putting them in packets or containers.
  2. Sorting seeds by variety and kind, making sure to label them with the seed's source, name, plant type, season of collection, and whether or not they were open pollinated. If possible, attendees are also invited to include optional details about the seed, such as its possible flavor, look, and growing circumstances.
  3. Giving planting advice or instructions in addition to the seeds.
  4. Bringing as many seeds for exchange as they'd like.

Attendees can select from a range of mini-classes during the Seed Swap. Below is the schedule.

  • At 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m, Seed Viability and Germination Test: Learn more about the chances of germination and seed viability from older seeds.
  • Additionally, 10:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., Seed Saving and Storage: To get the best results from subsequent plantings, make sure seeds are stored correctly.
  • Lastly, 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., Seed Starting Mix: The benefits and drawbacks of using, purchasing, or making seed starting mix.

The May Arboretum Society promotes growing more zone-friendly plants, so those without seeds to exchange are still welcome to participate. Those who do not bring seeds to swap are asked to donate $0.50 each package of seeds.