Sooke’s premier seed and local food growing event, Seedy Saturday presented by Sooke Region Food CHI takes place at the Sooke Community Hall on February 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The family-friendly day will feature a seed exchange and trading table, a diverse range of seed and plant vendors, local wild harvesters and food artisans, information from local non-profits working to enhance food security and tons of educational displays featuring information on everything from composting to bees to the history of farming in our region.
Workshops will be happening throughout the day, come by to check out:
• Manon Tremblay (Edibella Organic Landscapes, HCP, Gaia College)
• Fruit Tree Pruning
Marika Nagasaka (ALM Organic Farm/Full Circle Seeds)
• Garden Calendaring & Germination
Kim Greenwood
• Kitchen Gardening for Small Spaces
“Seedy Saturdays are very popular with new and experienced gardeners, alike,” said Jessica Boquist, Food CHI member, “Coming to the Sooke event ensures that locals are buying seeds or starters from plants that have proven successful in our climate. This is probably the most gardeners you will find, under one roof, all year. The networking is amazing with a wide variety of skills and experience among our participants.”
Local farmer, Mary Alice Johnson said, “It is wonderful that we have so many Seedy Saturdays in our region, and Sooke is an excellent addition. These events started in Victoria and have spread across the country. Seedy Saturdays have allowed many small seed companies to grow, and more are starting each year. They offer wonderful varieties – varieties from immigrant grandparents or world travels, or varieties from neighbours who have a great tomato or broad bean that they have been growing out for decades.”
Sooke Fall Fair will be hosting a healthy lunch downstairs as well as their monthly market which include a bake table, crafts, plants, canning and much more. Admission is by donation ($5 suggested).
More information: seedysaturday@gmail.com .
Vendor registration and info here or if interested in volunteering? Contact Emily at parsonsemily@hotmail.com .