The Kaslo Food Security Project was pleased to present a seed saving workshop with Patrick Steiner of Stellar Seeds on September 3rd. The event was a full day of seed saving techniques with hands on cleaning methods, and visits to two local farms where we examined plants in their fruiting cycle.

The morning began with a fabulous overview of self-pollinators, cross-pollinators, and hybrids, determining how to tell which plant species will cross and recommended isolation distances for those that do cross.

We then explored methods of actually cleaning seeds with tomatoes, ground cherries and peas. We had lots of fun dancing on the pods!

For the afternoon, we travelled to two local farms and examined lettuce, brassicas and tomatoes all going to seed. We also learned about the cucurbit family (squashes, cucumbers, melons, etc.) and how one can ensure seeds stay true to type by hand pollinating.

Patrick's ability to take what can be an intimidating venture one may assume needs a degree in biology to pursue and bring it down to a constructive, hands-on, everyone-can-do-this approach, was fabulous. He brought knowledge and confidence to many of our local growers and gardeners to pursue seed saving, which will further secure our food security for the North Kootenay Lake region.

Submitted by Aimee Watson, workshop coordinator