NORTH BEACH, Md. — If you’re ready to get a head start on your garden in 2026, Calvert County has an exciting program to get more seeds free of charge.
Many local gardeners have extra seeds, or seeds for items that won’t fit or work in their own garden. Or maybe they’re bored with tomatoes and cucumbers and want to try something new.
The Calvert Library – Twin Beaches Branch is hosting its annual Seed Swap event on Saturday, Jan. 17, at 10 a.m. This event is a great opportunity to network with other gardeners, try something new, learn gardening tips and tricks, and share and gather seeds with others.
And if you’re a new gardener who doesn’t have seeds to share, event organizers say you’re still invited. New gardeners who are just starting out are welcome to come get their first seeds — and hopefully make some new friends.
Gardeners can bring native, vegetable, herb, annual and perennial seeds. This includes unused seeds from purchased packs or seeds you gathered from your own garden. Everyone must label seeds with the variety type (bean), name (Blue Lake) and harvest year (2022–2025). You can look online for seed-saving information.
There are a few rules attendees need to follow when it comes to the seeds, as per the library:
- We are accepting old catalogs, gardening magazines and gardening books in good condition.
- We are only accepting divided seeds; please DO NOT bring containers full of seeds, bulk seeds or large packets of seeds (25+ seeds).
- We CANNOT accept any seeds from invasive species.
- We are only accepting seeds harvested from 2022–2025.
- Do not bring PVP (Plant Variety Protection) seeds because we are not allowed to swap them by law.
- Do not bring any GMO (genetically modified) or chemically treated seeds.
You can find more information on the event Facebook page.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!