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New 2024 seeds available on March 2
Our Second Annual Seed Library Launch is scheduled for March 2 from noon - 3pm at the Central Library. Seeds are first come, first served. Thanks to local volunteers, we have lots of seeds packed and ready, including all of our new seeds for 2024:
- Sideoats grama (Botanical Garden Series)
- Little Bluestem (Botanical Garden Series)
- Indiangrass (Botanical Garden Series)
- Anise Hyssop (Botanical Garden Series)
- Smooth Penstemon (Botanical Garden Series)
- Lance Leaf Coreopsis
- Common Milkweed
- New England Aster
- Black Eyed Susan
- Ground Cherry
- Flat Leaf Parsley
- Pumpkin Pie Pumpkin
- Black Beauty Zucchini
- Sugar Ann Pea (One Seed, One Community)
- Butterfly Weed (Featured Local Seed)
Seeds will be available on the second floor of the central library starting at noon.
On the main and lower levels of the library, we will be having many fun activities for gardeners of all ages:
1st Floor
- Meet Mother Nature and create seed art.
- Learn about Food Forests and the Bountiful Branches food-bearing perennials sale.
- View slideshow of local non-profits’ garden-related programs and services.
- Learn about germination testing.
- Make seed tape for easy seed spacing.
- Try your hand at seed harvesting.
- Get started with the 2024 One Seed One Community project.
- Plant a seed in your own portable planter (aka tp roll).
- Investigate seeds with a microscope.
- Dress up in “plant parts.”
- Enjoy stories and activities.
- Make a “seed bomb.”
- Color activity sheets.
Lower Level Foyer & Meeting Rooms
Q&A with Master Gardeners: Bring your questions!
Bulk Seed Swap: Bring your extra seeds to share, along with their details, and/or pick up some different kinds.
Adaptive Methods for Gardeners: Get tips and test out some devices for gardeners with physical limitations.
Lower Level Auditorium
30-minute Presentations by Gardening Experts
12:15 pm: Container Gardening. You can use many kinds of containers for many kinds of plants! This overview includes choosing containers, selecting plants and caring for your living creation. Lynn Clark is a Master Gardener who presented the popular Seed Starting 101 presentation at last year’s Seed Library Launch Party. She’ll bring in some sample containers and potting mixtures to show.
1:00 pm: Jumping Worms and Other Invasive Garden Pests. Allen Pyle, Horticulture Outreach Specialist for UW-Madison Division of Extension, will present the basics about several different non-native invasive insects and
invertebrates, the damage they cause, how to detect and identify them, and any tips to treat, manage and reduce their spread. Allen’s areas of expertise include entomology, ornamental perennials, native plants, vegetables, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
1:45 pm: Pollinator-Friendly Native Wildflowers. Get tips on how to grow and care for native perennials that attract pollinators essential for growing vegetables and fruits. Allen Pyle (see above) will focus on plants featured in the
2024 Seed Library, such as little bluestem, Indiangrass, anise hyssop, smooth penstemon, lanceleaf coreopsis, common milkweed, black-eyed susan and more.
2:30 pm: Growing Tomatoes from Seed. Tomato varieties come in all shapes, sizes, colors and tastes. Learn how to successfully start tomatoes from seed and transplant and care for them from Jenny Blaser, who grows and sells more than 100 different varieties each year. Jenny, who is from Little Chute, features her work in her “Grown from Seed” Facebook page.
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Genetically Modified Purple Tomato:
What it means for the
Gardener and Seed Saver
I don’t know if you have heard about the new GM purple tomato. It is the first GM seeds/plants that are available to us regular gardeners. It’s not cheap—$20 for 10 seeds.
This tomato was developed using snapdragon genes that turn on anthocyanin production in all cells creating a tomato fruit with purple skins and pulp. Other available purple open-pollinated tomatoes only produce anthocyanin in the fruit skin and were developed at Oregon State University. Older black and purple heirloom varieties are colored by a red and green interior pulp showing through a green or brown skin.
There is a big question over whether a new heirloom called “purple galaxy” was actually created by cross-pollinating with the GM purple tomato. GM company Norfolk and Heirloom seed seller Baker Creek worked together to share testing data and try and figure it out if “purple galaxy” contains bioengineered genes or not. Based on on statements by Baker Creek and Norfolk, purple galaxy tomato does contain genetically modified cells. Baker Creek has now pulled it from their catalog.
The definitions of “heirloom” and “heritage” varieties are going to be shifting and new names are going to be needed since the GM purple variety is inbred and open pollinated and gardeners are allowed to save seeds as long as they are shared and not sold. It really meets all current requirements to be an heirloom except it originated as a bioengineered cross.
I have no idea what the risk of outcrossing might be from these plants. Tomatoes mostly self-fertilize, that’s why saving seeds doesn’t require plant isolation. However, some varieties, particularly potato leaf varieties, do occasionally outcross. Current research shows 0-5% outcrossing by tomatoes in different experiments. The GM purple is patent protected so that plants cannot be sold or used to create new hybrids, but I am pretty sure the plants and bees (and many plant breeders) will ignore the legal docs. The entire heirloom seed development program is going to change as new open pollinated GM seeds are released, especially when varieties that easily cross-pollinate like peppers and squash are released to gardeners. It may become impossible to ensure that future varieties are GM free.
Norfolk Healthy Prouduce FAQ: https://www.norfolkhealthyproduce.com/faqs
Baker Creek Seeds FAQ: https://www.rareseeds.com/faq
NPR “Health Shots Blog”: https://www.npr.org/sections/health-
shots/2024/02/06/1228868005/purple-tomato-gmo-gardeners
Submitted by Vicki Medland, UWGB
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One Seed, One Community
Every year we will offer one plant as part of our One Seed, One Community program. This program was originally designed by Hillie Salo of Silicon Valley Grows, and has since been adopted by communities across the country. One Seed, One Community aims to strengthen our community by providing a shared experience that teaches people how to grow nutritious food and save seeds. The One Seed, One Community Project is based on "one book, one city" or "community read" programs. Instead of uniting a community in reading a single book, we find common ground by growing the same seed!
Many home gardens are usually too small to grow the minimum plant numbers to maintain the genetic stock of many seed varieties. Choosing one seed for many gardeners to grow and save builds a greater diversity into the genetics of that variety, as we share those seeds with one another through the vehicle of our seed libraries. Over time, this process has the potential to build local adaptation in these seeds and strengthen our local food systems.
In 2023, our chosen seed was “Dragon Tongue Bean”. We were thrilled to receive many local donations of this bean back to the seed library in fall!
Our chosen seed for 2024 is the “Sugar Ann Pea”. We encourage all of our gardeners to take a packet home. Grow some to eat, and let some go to seed. Once the pods are dry, harvest the dried peas inside and bring them back to the library.
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Germination Test
How Do You Know Your Seeds Will Germinate? The best way to see if your seeds are still viable is to do a germination test by following these steps:
- Place 10 seeds on a slightly damp paper towel. If the towel is too wet, the seeds will rot.
- Roll up or fold the paper towel and place it in a closed plastic bag to keep it from drying out.
- Use a permanent market to record the date and type of seed on the outside of the bag.
- Leave it in a warm place (above 70 degrees) for a few days. Most seeds do not require light to germinate, but a sunny window sill or the top of the refrigerator are practical locations.
- Check the seeds every few days for growth. You might be able to see them through the paper towel. Often the roots begin growing first.
- Once they've begun to germinate, carefully remove the paper towel wrapped seeds from the bag. Unroll the paper to see how many seeds have sprouted and count each germinated seed as 10. If 8 seeds started growing, the germination rate is 80%.
Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener
Adapted from the Illinois Extension website
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Vermiculture
Worms, Oh My! It’s Vermiculture
Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create a natural, nutrient-rich soil. Vermiculture is a composting method that uses worms to break down organic material. Here are some basics of composting using vermiculture.
First, you need a worm bin. This can be purchased or made from materials such as plastic bins or wooden boxes. Next, you will need bedding material, such as shredded newspaper or cardboard. Add the bedding to the bin along with food scraps, such as fruit and vegetable peels, and coffee grounds.. Be sure to avoid adding meat, dairy, and oily foods.
Once you have added your organic material to the bin, introduce your worms. Red wigglers are the most common type of worm used in vermiculture composting. They will digest the organic material and produce nutrient-rich compost.
To maintain your worm bin, ensure that it stays moist but not too wet. Avoid overfeeding the worms. As the worms break down the organic material, the compost will begin to accumulate at the bottom of the bin. You can harvest the compost every few months and use it in your garden or potted plants.
Vermiculture composting is a great way to create natural, nutrient-rich soil. With a few simple steps, you can reduce waste and create a healthier environment for your plants.
Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener,
with assistance from Canva AI
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Calendar of Local Garden Related Events:
March 2, noon - 3pm (free)
2nd Annual Seed Library Launch
Brown County Central Library, 515 Pine St
March 6, 6:30pm - 7:30pm (free)
Making Your Lawn Friendly to Pollinators
Virtual, MN State Horticulture Society
March 7, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Composting in the Vegetable Garden
Virtual, UW Extension
March 9, 10am - 11am (free)
Grafting Demonstration
STEM Center, Room 136
March 11, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Wisconsin Spring Wildflowers
Virtual, UW Extension
March 14, 6pm - 7:30pm ($)
Turf Alternatives Workshop
Virtual, Blue Thumb
March 14, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Cover Crops for the Vegetable Garden
Virtual, UW Extension
March 16 10am - 11:30am (free)
Seed Starting with The Gardeners Club of Green Bay
Green Bay Botanical Gardens, 2600 Larsen Rd
March 18, 1pm - 2pm (free)
Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series
Virtual, UW Extension
March 18, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Rain Gardens and Native Plants
Virtual, UW Extension
March 19, 5pm - 7pm ($)
"Restoration and Reciprocity: Healing Relationships with the Natural World" with Robin Wall Kimmerer
Virtual, Wild Ones
March 19, 6:30pm - 7:45pm ($)
Understanding Soil Health
Virtual, MN State Horticulture Society
March 20, noon - 1pm (free)
Designing Native Plant Gardens for Pollinators
Virtual, UW Extension
March 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Garden Planning for Highly Productive Gardens: Ready, Set, Grow!
Virtual, MN State Horticulture Society
March 21, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Seed Saving, Harvesting and Storage
Virtual, UW Extension
March 25, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Perennials for Sun
Virtual, UW Extension
March 26, 6:30pm - 7:45pm ($)
Best Trees You’re Not Planting (But Should)
Virtual, MN State Horticulture Society
March 27, 6:30pm - 9pm (free)
Fundamentals of Plant Diseases
Virtual, Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, UW Ext
April 1, 1pm -2pm (free)
Understanding the Emerald Ash Borer: From Identification to Action
Virtual, UW Extension
April 1, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Perennials for Shade
Virtual, UW Extension
April 3, noon - 1pm (free)
"What’s the Deal with No Mow May?"
Virtual, UW Extension
April 6, 11am - 12:15pm (free)
Foraging for Health and Wellness
Brown County Library East Branch
April 8, 6pm - 8pm ($)
Strawberries, Raspberries and Blueberries
Virtual, UW Extension
April 9, 1pm - 2:30pm ($)
Three Sisters Garden
Green Bay Botanical Gardens, 2600 Larsen Rd
April 9, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
No Dig + Hugelkultur
Virtual, MN State Horticulture Society
April 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm (free)
Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Watch Party at Central Library
April 22, 1pm - 2pm (free)
Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series
Virtual, UW Extension
April 22, 6pm - 7:30pm ($)
The Winged Garden
Green Bay Botanical Gardens, 2600 Larsen Rd
April 24, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (free)
Plant Disease Management by Design: Preventing Plant Disease Problems During the Landscape Design Process
Virtual, UW Extension
April 25, noon - 1pm (free)
Establishing a Bee Lawn – Current Research and Practical Techniques
Virtual, UW Extension
April 30, 9am - 7:30pm ($)
Friends of the Library’s Big Book Sale
Brown County Central Library Lower Level
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Plant Profile:
Butterfly Weed
This year, we're excited to highlight Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) as our featured local seed. All distributed seeds have been harvested in Brown County, with a significant portion sourced from Zone 1 of Seymour Park's food forest. We've chosen this native plant not just for its beauty and adaptability but also for its vital role in supporting the Monarch butterfly.
Milkweed species, like Butterfly Weed, are crucial for Monarchs as they are the only plants that Monarch caterpillars will eat. Since Monarchs breed and lay eggs in Wisconsin, it's essential that we provide this necessary habitat and food source to ensure their survival.
By showcasing Butterfly Weed this year, our aim is to raise awareness about its importance in supporting pollinators and fostering biodiversity in our local ecosystems. We invite everyone to join us in planting Butterfly Weed and creating welcoming spaces for Monarchs and other pollinators to thrive. Together, we can make a difference for these beautiful creatures and the ecosystems they rely on.
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Featured Recipe
Large Cluster Maple and Cinnamon Granola
Ingredients:
¼ c melted butter
1 c maple syrup
1 egg white
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp salt
2 TBSP ground flax seeds
3 c rolled oats
1 c chopped almonds
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
- Melt butter in glass bowl. Add syrup, egg white, vanilla and almond extracts, cinnamon and salt, whisk to combine.
- Add ground flax seeds, oats and almonds. Mix with spatula until evenly coated. Spread on a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Bake 50-55 min. Do not stir. Allow to cool completely before breaking.
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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