My seed order arrived in the mail last week.

For context, I bought some seeds in a panic. Somebody (wink mom, wink) noted that, in a few months, it’ll be time to start seeds indoors. Luckily my panic purchase does not require me to start my seeds indoors. So, I have some time (phew!), and I was nervous for no reason. And it was a real treat to receive my online order in the mail last week.

The majority of seeds I purchased are annual flowers that I have grown before, such as zinnias and marigolds. I will try my hand again at some annual flowers that I have not been successful at germinating¹. This includes the elusive poppy. This time I will try the California poppy. In the past, I have failed to grow the Icelandic poppy. So wish me luck this year!

Where I Panic Purchased this Year

I also purchased some vegetable seeds, including cucumbers and green onions. I ordered my seeds from McKenzie Seeds this year, which is a common supplier to Canadian retail stores and garden centres. You can purchase this brand, in person, at most brick and mortar shops. However, I learned that if you buy 50 dollars worth of seed online and are a first time buyer, you will qualify for free shipping and can apply a 10 percent discount code at check out. If this is something that interests you, note that a few days after you place your online order you will be emailed a limited time BOGO offer (that’s their hook to reel you in. I did not know this and missed out). McKenzie seeds has an extensive rewards points program for bonus bucks at checkout.

The Scoop on Seedy Saturdays

If buying seeds online is not your jam, I encourage you to check out your local seed swap. Basically a local seed swap (aka Seedy Saturday) is a community event to trade seeds with other gardeners or purchase seeds from vendors. Entrance fees usually include a small monetary or non-perishable food donation. This helps to keep these volunteer-run events operational.

Larger Seedy Saturdays also incorporate seminars or workshops into the event. It’s a great opportunity to solicit gardening information from the pros, such as a Master Gardener.² I am hoping to attend the Master Gardeners of Niagara Seedy Saturday with a friend this February. Seeds of Diversity has an excellent consolidated list of seed swaps happening across the country:

Lastly, I am also happy to swap seeds with folks, too! (I am not running out of my saved sunflower seeds anytime soon).

1. Germination just means when a seed begins to grow or sprout during a period of dormancy ↩︎
2. Master Gardeners are experienced gardeners who have studied horticulture extensively and continue to upgrade their skills through technical training. With this training and continuing education, Master Gardeners give expert horticultural advice to the general public. Learn more or donate to the Master Gardeners of Ontario through their website. ↩︎