On January 18, a new seed library called the Orleans Community Seed Share (OCSS) will open at the Cornell Cooperative Extension offices in Albion.
Seed libraries collect and store seeds to share for free with the community, and the OCSS will offer a wide range of seeds for flowers, herbs, vegetables, and native plants.
“The OCSS isn’t just about growing plants. It’s about growing confidence, community, and connection,” says Julia Bender, the Master Gardener leading the seed library effort.
A program of the Orleans County Master Gardeners, the OCSS will be open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the CCE Education Center, 12690 State Route 31, Albion. It will also offer monthly classes for both new and experienced gardeners.
The series of monthly classes, called Seeds to Splendor, will be held at 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month. The first class, on January 18, will focus on garden planning and design. It will be followed by a Community Hour where Master Gardeners will welcome questions and help visitors interested in choosing seeds.
Seeds available in the OCSS library include those collected from home gardens by Master Gardener Volunteers and community members as well as generous donations from companies such as Baker Creek, CW Native Plant Farm, High Mowing Seeds, and Seed Savers Exchange.
The Seed Share will also host a Spring Seed Swap on March 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. In addition to sharing seeds, the event will include seed starting demonstrations and more.
“We understand that starting can feel overwhelming,” Bender says. “That’s why we’ve created a supportive ecosystem to nurture every type of gardening dream. Our program embraces the full spectrum of growing — from the tiniest herb garden on a sunny windowsill to expansive native plant landscapes.”
Bender created the Seed Share in memory of her mother, Sally Bender, an avid gardener who inspired her own love of nature and gardening.
“Every magnificent garden starts with a single seed and a heart full of hope,” Bender says.
To learn more about the Orleans Community Seed Share, visit https://orleans.cce.cornell.edu/gardening/orleans-community-seed-share-1, or contact Katie Oakes, Horticulture Educator, Master Gardener and Master Food Preserver Program Coordinator, at klo54@cornell.edu or 585-798-4265, ext 125.
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