Even with several feet of snow on the ground, we are working hard behind the scenes and gearing up for many new or ongoing garden projects in 2011. In preparation, I have seeds on my mind.

Over the past few decades, several agro giants got to buying up many seed companies around the world. They not only targeted the commercial agriculture industry, but seeds for home vegetable gardens as well. Aside from the anti-trust issues raised from having a few large corporations control the world’s seed supply, there are other concerns as well. The recent consolidation has resulted in a drastic decrease in the variety of seeds. This lack of diversity in plants weakens the ecosystem and leads to the use of more pesticides and herbicides.  A quite horrific cycle.

So what can you do?

The Kingston Land Trust participates in the Green$eed Program through Hudson Valley Seed Library

The Kingston Land Trust is pleased to be participating in a program called Green$eed offered by the Hudson Valley Seed Library – a local company that creates accessible and affordable regionally-adapted seeds that are maintained by a community of caring farmers and gardeners in the Hudson Valley. This year, they expect to offer 60 varieties of locally grown seed and around 100 varieties sourced from responsible seed houses.  Through this program, the KLT will receive 25% of any online purchases made by using our code which is listed below.

1. Visit  http://www.seedlibrary.org

2. choose your items.

3. At the checkout, submit our code KLTG (Kingston Land Trust Gardens) before placing your order.

4. Voila! You’ve taken a step towards productive change while supporting your local land trust.

Thank you.

Rebecca Martin
Executive Director, Kingston Land Trust