Earlier this summer, we were invited to do a workshop at Chelsea Physic Garden as part of their Help Us Grow programme. The programme uses horticulture and art to create social and therapeutic opportunities for people recovering from mental and physical ill-health. We were welcomed by the group, who have already done a number of creative workshops together, and introduced them to the wonderful world of seed saving.
We shared some fun facts about tomatoes and taught participants about how to save the seeds, then everyone had a go at scooping out and saving seeds from some heritage tomatoes. After this, we introduced the group to some of the varieties from the seed bank including Fiesta corn, Sea beet, Kuri squash and French marigolds. We spent some time looking at the seeds and noticing all of their unique characteristics. We showed the group how to make origami seed envelopes and everyone left with a small bundle of handmade envelopes with the seeds tucked safely inside.
It was lovely to chat about gardening, seeds and seed saving whilst our hands were busy with the two activities. Everyone had at least one memory of seeds from childhood including someone who was still haunted by the fear that a watermelon might sprout out of his ear if he ate the seed!
Thanks to Chelsea Physic Garden and the Help Us Grow group for making us feel welcome and for sharing their beautiful recollections.