Seed Saving Event in Kilkenny Highlights Nature’s Wisdom

A recent seed saving event in Callan, Kilkenny, offered participants an enriching opportunity to connect with nature while learning an ancient practice. Held during Heritage Week, the evening was led by local expert Monica Fleming, who shared her extensive knowledge about the importance of seed saving and its relevance to modern life.

Participants gathered in the serene surroundings of Abbey Meadow and Moat Field to explore the world of wildflowers and the seeds they produce. The event emphasized the significance of preserving plant genetics, which has shaped human agriculture for centuries. As Monica explained, seed saving involves collecting seeds from plants once they have dried, allowing individuals to grow new plants in the following seasons.

Monica guided attendees through various techniques for identifying ripe seeds and demonstrated how to separate seeds from their chaff. She highlighted that many wildflowers are currently producing seeds that can be collected and replanted for next year’s bloom.

One of the key lessons from the evening was the inherent wisdom found in nature. Monica pointed out plants such as knapweed and mullein, illustrating how they do not bloom all at once. Instead, they exhibit a remarkable adaptability, pacing their growth and reproduction. “Nature has learned to be clever,” she remarked, noting that seeds do not germinate simultaneously. Some may lie dormant for years, with poppy seeds capable of remaining viable for up to 50 years.

Through this seed saving workshop, participants not only gained practical skills but also reflected on broader life lessons. The event served as a reminder that in our fast-paced lives, not everything needs to be accomplished at once. Just as nature unfolds in its own time, so too can individuals find value in patience and gradual progress.

The evening underscored the notion that connecting with nature can provide both knowledge and solace. By learning the art of seed saving, attendees took away more than just practical gardening techniques; they left with a renewed appreciation for the cycles of life and the importance of nurturing our natural heritage.