September 2024 Newsletter

Cool Beans!

Exciting news to share! The Brown County Seed Library has gained international recognition for our innovative contributions to the seed library movement. Recently featured in the "Cool Beans!" newsletter, published by the Seed Library Network, the BCSL's work is helping to shape the future of seed libraries globally.

The Seed Library Network, which includes over 1,000 seed libraries across five continents, uses "Cool Beans!" to share knowledge and foster a global community committed to seed sovereignty. With over 6,000 subscribers, the newsletter empowers communities by honoring the wisdom of seeds and their keepers.

In a recent article, "Cool Beans!" spotlighted the BCSL's creative approach to seed packaging, developed by AmeriCorps member Braedon Richlen. Braedon created an "Auto Wrapper" using Google Sheets, which streamlines the labeling process and enhances record-keeping for seed libraries. This tool, praised as a potential game-changer, is available as a shareable template for other seed libraries to adopt.

Braedon's work exemplifies how local initiatives can have a global impact, and we are proud to be part of this innovative and collaborative community. Way to go Braedon!

Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener

Maintaining Genetic Diversity

Despite two adjacent plants appearing identical and sharing similar taste profiles, they possess numerous other plant characteristics that may not be immediately apparent, such as resistance to insects and diseases or drought tolerance. Consequently, harvesting seeds from only one plant fails to capture the full spectrum of genetic diversity inherent in the population. Ensuring genetic diversity is critical for two primary reasons: preventing inbreeding depression, which can lead to reduced survival and fertility in future generations, and enhancing a plant variety's ability to adapt to future environmental changes.

Maintaining genetic diversity is particularly crucial for preserving heirloom seeds. It is prudent to save seeds from multiple plants rather than just one. The greater the number of plants contributing seeds, the better the genetic diversity. The more the better. The optimal population size required for genetic diversity varies. Seed Savers Exchange has developed a PDF document called Seed Saving Guide that provides recommended population sizes.  

The BCSL relies on people like you to help us maintain genetic diversity in our seeds collection.  If you are interested in learning more about Seed Saving, contact us at seedsaver@newmastergardeners.org or check out our website https://newmastergardeners.org/seedsaving/.  Together, we can ensure genetic diversity in the seeds we package and offer to the public.

Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener

Open AI

Return of the Sugar Ann Snap Peas Celebration

It's that time of year again—seed harvesting season! Your Sugar Ann Snap Pea pods are likely dried and your plants may look spent, which means they're ready for harvesting.

Join us on September 14, from 12 pm - 3 pm, for a delightful event: the Return of the Sugar Ann Snap Peas Celebration! This gathering will take place in the Children’s Edible Garden at the Brown County Library as part of the Central Library’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.

Discover various methods and tools for cleaning your seeds, and learn the best practices for storing them over the winter. Bring your Sugar Ann Snap Peas and any other seeds you’d like to donate, and let's clean them up together. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener

Book Review: Saving Our Seeds: The Practice and Philosophy 

by Bevin Cohen

This book provides instruction on how and when to harvest seed from dozens of species then how to process and store those seeds. Pages include the species’ historical and other descriptive information such as where they were domesticated and how they’re pollinated. Interspersed throughout the book are Seed Keeper Tales which are biographical stories from people who are saving seeds around North America. Also included are vignettes of plants and places and dates that illustrate the importance and joy of saving seeds. 

Submitted by Jennifer Classon, Brown County Central Library Associate and N.E.W. Master Gardener

Plant Profile: Ground Cherries

Ground cherries (Physalis pruinosa), also known as husk tomatoes or cape gooseberries, are a unique addition to any Wisconsin garden. Producing abundant small fruits from midsummer up until first frost, this member of the nightshade family is not only easy to grow but also versatile in the kitchen. They can be prolific self seeders, but this can be controlled easily by planting in containers or by regular harvesting of the fruits.

Starting Ground Cherries from Seed

1. Seed Starting Indoors: In Wisconsin's climate, it's best to start ground cherry seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. This typically means planting seeds in late March or early April. Use a seed-starting mix and plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the trays in a warm, sunny spot or under grow lights. Ground cherry seeds germinate best at temperatures between 70-85°F.
2. Transplanting Outdoors: Once the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F (usually around late May in Wisconsin), the seedlings can be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Space the plants about 2-3 feet apart, as they tend to spread.
3. Care and Maintenance: Ground cherries are relatively low-maintenance. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater, as they dislike soggy soil. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and prevent weed growth.
4. Harvesting: Ground cherries are typically ready to harvest 70-80 days after transplanting. The fruits will drop to the ground and be golden with a dry paper wrapper when ripe, hence the name "ground cherry." Simply gather the fallen fruits and remove the husks before eating or using them in recipes.

Enjoying Ground Cherries

Ground cherries can be eaten fresh, added to salads or smoothies, made into jams, or used in desserts like pies and crisps. Their sweet, slightly tangy flavor is a treat that makes them a favorite among home gardeners. With proper care, ground cherries can be a rewarding and delicious addition to your Wisconsin garden, offering a unique harvest that lasts well into the fall.

Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener

Open AI

Calendar of Local Garden Related Events:

Sept 7, 10am - 11am (free)

Tour of Theeke residence

2742 Main St, Green Bay

Sept 9, 7pm - 8pm (free)

Restoring Habitat in the Fox River and Green Bay

2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay

Sept 11, noon - 12:30pm (free)

Seasonal Secrets: Fall Bulb Planting

Virtual, UW Extension

Sept 11, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Turf Alternatives

Virtual, Northern Gardener

Sept 14, 10am - noon (free)

Tour of the Seymour Park Food Forest

330 S Oakland Ave, Green Bay

Sept 14, noon - 3pm (free)

Central Library's 50th Birthday Block Party

Seed Cleaning with Master Gardeners and Return of the Sugar Ann Peas

515 Pine St, Green Bay

Sept 17, 2pm - 4pm ($)

Physical Therapy for Gardeners

2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay

Sept 18 - Oct 23 ($)

Sustainable Landscape Design Basics Series

Virtual, Northern Gardener

Sept 19, 6pm - 7pm (free)

The Beauty and Benefits of Hedgerows

Virtual, Wild Ones

Sept 19, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

No Dig + Hügelkultur

Virtual, Northern Gardener

Sept 23, 1pm - 2pm (free)

Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series

Virtual, UW Extension

Sept 25, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (free)

Growing Healthy Plants: Basics in Plant Disease Management

Virtual, UW Extension

Sept 26, noon - 12:30pm (free)

Fall Into Spring Success: Planning Ahead for Weed Prevention

Virtual, UW Extension

Sept 26, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Great Ornamental Grasses

Virtual, UW Extension

Sept 28, 9am - 6:30pm (free)

Fall Family Fest at the Botanical Garden

Seed Harvesting for the Seed Library during Fall Family Fest, 1pm - 3pm

2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay

Oct 3, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Fall Fireworks: Plants for Fall Color

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 5, 10am - 11:30 ($)

Fall into Foraging: Intro to Foraging Hike

149 Baird Creek Rd, Green Bay

Oct 8, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Fall Bulbs for Spring-Blooming Flowers

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 9, 6pm - 7:30pm ($)

Designing with Fall Bulbs

2500 Larsen Rd, Green Bay

Oct 9, 6:30pm - 7:45pm (free)

Leaf Composting and Fall Garden/Yard Clean Up

515 Pine St, Green Bay

October 10, 6:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Foraging Your Yard: How to Make Any Size Yard a Forager’s Paradise

Virtual, Northern Gardener

Oct 17, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Getting the Garden Ready for Winter

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 20, 1pm - 3pm (free)

Seed Collecting Demonstration

2325 Oak Ridge Cir, De Pere

Oct 21, 1pm - 2pm (free)

Ask the Experts: A Monthly Garden and Landscape Q&A Series

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 23, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (free)

Orchid Diseases

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 24, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Gardening with Climate Change in Mind: Trends, Challenges, and Adaptations

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 24, 6pm - 7pm (free)

“Matrix Landscape Design” with Benjamin Vogt

Virtual, Wild Ones

Oct 24, 6:30pm - 7:30pm )$)

Restoring Abundance and Regenerating Ecosystems

Virtual, Northern Gardener

Oct 26, 8am - noon (free)

Volunteer Opportunity: Native Seed Planting

corner of Baird Creek Road and Superior Road, 54311

Oct 29, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)

Green Thumb Gardening: Shady Characters: Great Perennials for Shade

Virtual, UW Extension

Oct 30, 6pm - 7:30pm ($)

The Mushrooms of Autumn

2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay

Ground Cherry Salsa

Ingredients 

1/8 cup olive oil

Juice and zest of one small lime

sea salt and ground pepper to taste

4 ears grilled corn

1 cup husked whole ground cherries

1 cup cucumber, quartered lengthwise, deseeded, and chopped

3 tablespoons basil, cut into a fine chiffonade

2 tablespoons shallot, finely minced

1 teaspoon jalapeno pepper, minced finely (add more if you prefer)

Directions

1. Prepare the vinaigrette by combining the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest and salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Place the grilled corn, ground cherries, cukes, basil, shallot, and jalapeño into a medium sized serving bowl and mix the ingredients thoroughly.

3. Add the vinaigrette, mix all ingredients, and chill in the refrigerator.  

Support the BCSL!

We are entirely supported by grants, donations and volunteers! If you are interested, there are many ways to support the BCSL. 

*You can become a Seed Steward and support the library by growing out seeds from our core list to donate. We will accept seed donations by anyone who would like to donate, seeds can be dropped off at the STEM center or at the Central library. 

*You can volunteer to sort and pack seeds. Opportunities will be posted on the New Leaf Foods Calendar of Events, included in our newsletters and posted with the Volunteer Center of Brown County.

*You can make a monetary donation through our Fiscal Agent, New Leaf Foods. Click here to donate.

*You can visit our Amazon Wish List, which has basic packing supplies that we utilize for preparing our seeds for distribution. Click here to access the wishlist.

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