I love free stuff, and getting free seeds by mail is nor different. Believe it or not, you can really get seeds for free, and I’ve done it dozens of times for myself, my mom, and even my grandma.
If you’re like me, then going to a store to buy new seeds is the most annoying thing in the world. I’d rather spend my time doing something else, like finding ways to get free stuff. That’s how I learned to get free compost and free seeds sent right to my door.
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How to Get Free Seeds By Mail
Whether you’re interested in flowers, herbs, or vegetables, there are plenty of organizations and resources available that offer free seeds to gardeners of all levels.
1. Seed Swaps
Gardeners may meet during seed exchanges to trade seeds with one another. You may acquire free seeds and network with local green thumbs at these events.
You may find seed exchanges in community centers, gardening organizations, and online gardening forums.
If you want to participate in a seed swap, you should bring some seeds to trade.
The name of the plant, the variety, and any other relevant information should be clearly labeled on the packaging of your seeds. To store the seeds you get from other gardeners, carry envelopes or tiny containers.
Participating in a seed exchange can be a lot of fun, and you never know what gardening advice you could pick up from the other people there. You will also get free garden seeds!
2. Seed Banks
Rare and endangered plant varieties are carefully stored and distributed through seed banks.
Gardeners, particularly those concerned with the survival of rare heritage types, may get free seeds from several seed banks. Help save endangered species and grow your food at no cost using seeds from a seed bank.
A web search can help you locate a seed bank in your area. There are seed banks that serve just a specific area, as well as national and worldwide seed banks.
When you find a seed bank that piques your interest, you may often get free seeds by submitting an online form.
3. Seed Catalogs
Free catalogs from many different seed businesses sometimes come with free seed samples. Some seed suppliers may include a free sample pack of seeds with your catalog request, and you can order a catalog online.
A careful reading of seed catalogs is required for optimal use. Inquire about the mature plant size, optimal growth circumstances, and optimal harvest timings. Comparing pricing and selection across many catalogs may be the greatest savings.
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4. Government Programs
Free seed kits are available via several government initiatives to promote gardening and organic farming.
For instance, schools, community gardens, and other groups may get free seeds through the USDA’s People’s Garden Program. These seeds have often been bred for optimal performance in certain environments.
Find out whether you qualify for and how to apply for a government seed program. To participate in certain initiatives, you may need a certain kind of garden or membership in a certain group.
Yet, if you qualify, receiving free seeds from a government program is a fantastic way to kick off your gardening endeavors.
5. Social Media
Free seeds are widely available on social media from gardeners and seed firms. You can get the latest information on free seed giveaways and gardening advice by following gardening accounts on social media.
Interacting with the accounts you follow on social media is crucial to boost your chances of receiving free seeds.
Show your enthusiasm for gardening by liking, commenting on, and sharing posts. Free seeds and other gardening equipment are available in various competitions and giveaways.
6. Seed Libraries
Gardeners may use seed libraries, which are community-based initiatives, to borrow and trade seeds with one another.
Free seeds are a perk of joining many seed libraries, and some will even ship seeds to members who live far away. By joining a seed library, you may save money on trying out new plant kinds.
Locating a local seed library is the first step towards becoming a member. Places like libraries and community centers run many seed libraries, so that’s a good place to start looking. Find local seed libraries by doing an internet search.
7. Garden Shows and Festivals
Festivals and fairs dedicated to gardening are great places to learn about new plants and methods.
Free seeds are a common reward at fairs and festivals, and attending these gatherings will allow you to pick up some free seeds and pick the brains of seasoned green thumbs.
Online event calendars and gardening periodicals are great resources for locating local garden exhibits and festivals. Plan so you can take advantage of all the fun things in the spring and summer.
8. Freecycle and Craigslist
Users of websites such as Freecycle and Craigslist can freely trade things with one another without the need to exchange any money.
Even for those who aren’t very interested in gardening, the internet is a great way to get free seeds to use in their projects.
By doing a search using the keywords “seeds” or “plants,” you may be able to locate local gardeners who are prepared to give away spare seeds and plants.
9. Friends and Family
Most gardeners would gladly give away any extra seeds or plants they have. If you inquire around, you may be able to find folks willing to give you seeds and seedlings for free.
Seeds given to you by friends or family members should be marked with variety and relevant information. In exchange, you may offer to share any extra seeds or plants you have.
10. Seed Saving Organizations
Organizations such as the Seed Savers Exchange often have programs to distribute seeds to preserve genetic diversity.
While some may have a small membership fee, it’s usually quite minimal compared to buying seeds.
11. Local Libraries
Aside from seed libraries, some regular libraries also offer seeds as part of their effort to support local gardening initiatives.
12. Garden Clubs and Societies
Joining a local gardening club or society often gives access to seed swaps and sharing among members. These groups are also a great way to learn more about gardening and meet like-minded individuals.
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Hi, I’m Ashley a freelance writer who’s passionate about personal finance. Ever since I was young, I’ve been fascinated by the power of money and how it can shape our lives. I’ve spent years learning everything I can about budgeting, saving, investing and retirement planning. So if you are looking for tips, advice, or just a little bit of inspiration to help you on your financial journey, you have come to the right place. I am always here to help, and I am excited to share my passion for personal finance with you.