I’m back fellow fans of gardening! (Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right?). And I’m here to report on the details of a very successful Seedy Saturday event in Fonthill, Ontario.

Yesterday, I attended this milestone event—the 10th annual Seedy Saturday hosted by the Master Gardeners of Niagara. The drive there was a bit tricky due to winter conditions, but any concerns quickly faded upon arriving at the venue. The atmosphere was warm, not just in temperature, but in spirit.

Despite the weather, the turnout was remarkable. Organizers reported that at least 300 people had already passed through the doors by mid-morning, a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of the gardening community. The energy in the room was infectious, as passionate gardeners, seasoned growers, and eager beginners gathered to swap seeds, share knowledge, and celebrate the promise of the growing season ahead.

Mark your calendars! Next year’s Master Gardeners of Niagara Seedy Saturday will be held on February 14th, 2026.

One of the standout features of the event was the seed swap, a cornerstone of any good Seedy Saturday. Tables overflowed with packets of heirloom tomatoes, heritage beans, native wildflowers, and everything in between. For those who didn’t bring seeds to trade, packets were available for just 25 cents each—an unbeatable price for anyone looking to expand their garden. At this remarkable price, I walked away with just under 30 packets of new seeds. The exchange of seeds also meant the exchange of stories: where the seeds came from, how they thrived in different conditions, and the best tricks for growing success.

Beyond the swap itself, the event buzzed with conversations about sustainable gardening, biodiversity, and the importance of preserving heirloom varieties. The Master Gardeners of Niagara, ever generous with their expertise, offered guidance on everything from cold moist stratification (hot tip: native perennials love this) to the joy of experimenting with allium seeds, ensuring that everyone left feeling more prepared for the upcoming growing season.

Events like Seedy Saturday remind me why I love gardening—not just for the joy of nurturing plants, but for the incredible community it fosters. The camaraderie, the shared excitement over a particularly rare variety of watermelon or a new composting tip, and the sense of connection to both people and the land make these gatherings truly special.

As I drove home, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. The winter conditions may have made for a slightly challenging trip, but the warmth of the gardening community more than made up for it. Here’s to another season of growing, sharing, and celebrating the seeds that bring us together.