Call for Volunteer seed-sowers!
The Friends are looking to expand the group of volunteers who sow and grow on plants for the regular plant sales in aid of the Gardens. So, what does it involve?
Here, one of the existing volunteers answers some questions which may help persuade you to join us.
1. What sort of commitment is this?
Actually, its entirely up to you! You can choose to sow and grow on just one packet of hardy perennial seed, or lots. Personally, I grow a lot of things from seed every year because I love doing it, but I end up with so many spare plants, it makes sense that they can be sold in aid of the Gardens and all the good work going on there.
2. What support do volunteers get?
As much as you need – you buy your own seed, which makes sense because you can choose what you want to grow, but the Friends provide peat-free compost, grit, pots and labels, not to mention plenty of advice and guidance from a friendly bunch. You don’t need to be an expert, have a greenhouse or know the latin names!
3. What sort of seeds would you advise starting off with?
That’s easy – choose plants you like, don’t attempt too many different ones at first, choose ones which germinate easily and flower in their first year e.g. aquilegia, sea holly or bee balm. That way you build up your confidence and experience and move on to plants which need a bit of special treatment, or take a while to germinate.
4. How long does it take for seeds to germinate?
That depends entirely on the plant. Some spring up within days, others take a couple of years, or only germinate after being sat outside over winter. Call me sad, but the joy I get from seeing a hellebore sown in October, germinate in February is immense.
5. What else do you enjoy about being one of our volunteer seed sowers?
Learning about new plants and improving my knowledge and growing skills, I’m constantly learning.
If you think you’d enjoy growing plants from seed, come and join us and give it a go. For more information, contact fobs_seedsowers@yahoo.com or call Lindsay on 07765995946
