About the Project
The Town of Perinton Community Garden Seed Saving Project, initiated in 2024, builds upon the foundation of six community garden beds dedicated to growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Seeds saved from the community garden are hand planted, hand picked, and hand packaged. This project aims to preserve and share valuable plant genetics, promote sustainability, and foster a deeper connection to local gardening practices. By saving seeds from year to year, community members can cultivate a resilient and diverse garden while contributing to environmental stewardship and food security. This initiative encourages ecological responsibility and strengthens community bonds through shared resources, knowledge, and a love for gardening.
Mission and Vision
Our mission is to cultivate a sustainable community by providing free seeds that encourage pollinators, increase biodiversity, and promote food sovereignty. By saving seeds and distributing them at multiple locations within the community, we aim to create sustainable partnerships and educational opportunities, share the power of working with nature, and encourage the beautification of the Town of Perinton, Village of Fairport, and the surrounding community.
Annual | Phaseolus coccineus
Description:
Thrives on vertical garden arches with heart-shaped leaves and striking scarlet red flowers on 6+ foot vines. Produces sweet, tender young green beans and unique black and purple dried beans.
Planting Instructions:
- Sow 1 seed 1 inch deep every 6 inches after the final frost.
Harvesting:
- Fresh Green Beans: Harvest young and tender beans ~70 days after planting.
- Dry Beans: Leave pods on the vine until brown and dry (~100 days).
Saving Seeds:
- Allow pods to fully ripen and dry on the vine. Harvest, remove beans, and store in a cool, dark place with a desiccant packet.
This variety is beautiful, delicious, and perfect for seed-saving to share with the community.
Self Sowing Annual | Cosmos bipinnatus
Description:
Cosmos bring a delightful mix of white and pink blooms, reaching 3-4 feet tall. They add texture to the garden and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Ideal for bouquets, they bloom continuously if spent flowers are removed regularly.
Planting Instructions:
- Sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep every 1 ½ feet after the final frost in full sun.
- Thin to 1 strong plant per spot once seedlings grow.
Saving Seeds:
- Let flower heads fully bloom and dry. Harvest small, dark seeds from dried heads, remove chaff, and allow seeds to dry completely.
- Store in a cool, dark place with a desiccant packet.
Cosmos are beautiful, functional, and perfect for seed-saving, adding a rewarding element to gardening.
Self Sowing Annual | Coriandrum sativum
Description:
Cilantro is a favorite in the community garden, providing a gift that keeps on giving. This herb grows to about a foot tall, with tender leaves that are perfect for adding to salsas or salads. In addition to enjoying the fresh cilantro leaves, we also save the seeds for the following season. These seeds, known as coriander, are harvested and used as a spice. Toasting and grinding the coriander seeds enhances their aromatic flavor, making them a valuable addition to various culinary dishes. Fresh cilantro and coriander from your garden will elevate any meal.
Planting Instructions:
- In early Spring, sow 2 seeds ½ inch deep every 1 inch in an area that receives partial or full sun.
Saving Seeds:
- To save cilantro seeds, allow the plants to flower and dry. Once the stems and small, round dark seeds are fully dry, harvest them.
- Remove the seeds from the dried stems and store them in a cool, dark place. A glass jar with a desiccant packet is recommended to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
Cilantro and coriander from your garden offer an incredible combination of fresh and dried flavors that will enrich your cooking experience.
Self Sowing Annual |Cosmos sulphureus
Description:
Diablo Cosmos are a striking addition to any garden, growing up to five feet tall and creating a lush, wispy sea of tangerine-colored flowers. These vibrant blooms attract hummingbirds and other beneficial pollinators, enhancing the garden’s biodiversity. The petals of Diablo Cosmos are not only beautiful but also edible, and they can be used as a natural dye, adding both beauty and functionality to your garden.
Planting Instructions:
- After the final frost, sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep every 1 foot in a location that receives full sun.
- Once the seedlings have grown, thin to leave only 1 strong plant per spot.
Saving Seeds:
- Saving Diablo Cosmos seeds is easy. After the blooms have faded, look for dark-colored, long slender seeds where the flowers once were. As the seeds mature, they will open up into a spikey globe.
- Once the seeds have fully dried, harvest them and store them in a cool, dark place. We recommend using a glass jar with a desiccant packet to maintain their dryness and ensure proper storage.
Diablo Cosmos offer both visual beauty and practical uses in the garden, making them an excellent choice for seed saving. Their vibrant color and attraction to pollinators make them a favorite in any garden, while their edible petals and dye potential add a unique, multi-functional aspect to your gardening experience.
Self Sowing Annual | Calendula officinalis
Description:
Calendulas are a prolific and beautiful flower that grows up to 24 inches tall. They are known for their vibrant color and ability to attract pollinators, making them a favorite in the community garden. In addition to their ornamental beauty, calendulas have edible petals that can be harvested and used in a variety of culinary dishes. They are also easy to grow and can self-sow if seeds are not collected, ensuring a continual presence in your garden.
Planting Instructions:
- 2 weeks before the final frost, sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep every 1 foot in a sunny spot.
- Once seedlings emerge, thin to leave 1 strong plant per spot.
Saving Seeds:
- Calendula seeds are simple to collect. Once the blooms have faded, curved seeds of various sizes will form where the flowers once were.
- Harvest these seeds once they are golden and dry.
- Be sure to allow the seeds to fully dry before storing them in a cool, dark place. A glass jar with a desiccant packet is recommended to maintain their dryness and preserve their viability for future planting.
Calendulas offer not only beauty and a splash of color to your garden but also functionality, with their ability to attract pollinators and provide edible petals. Saving the seeds ensures you’ll have a continued supply of this wonderful plant for seasons to come.
Annual |Tithonia speciosa
Description:
Mexican sunflowers are a vibrant and easy-to-grow addition to any garden, reaching heights of 5 to 7 feet. These sunflowers produce large, vivid orange blooms that are abundant throughout the summer months, attracting many pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Their striking color and height make them a standout feature in any garden.
Planting Instructions:
- After the final frost, sow 2 seeds ½ inch deep every 2 feet in a spot that gets full sun.
- Once the seedlings are established, thin to 1 plant per spot.
Saving Seeds:
- Saving seeds from Mexican sunflowers is straightforward. Wait until the flower heads have faded, turned brown, and begun to droop. The seed heads will develop spikes, making it difficult to collect the seeds.
- Cut the entire flower head and place it in a container. Shake the head to release the chocolate-colored, spade-shaped seeds.
- Ensure the seeds are fully dried before storing them in a cool, dark place. A glass jar with a desiccant packet will help maintain the seeds’ dryness and freshness.
Mexican sunflowers are not only stunning but also offer the added benefit of being easy to grow and maintain, making them a great choice for seed saving. By harvesting their seeds, you can enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year while supporting local pollinators.
Self Sowing Annual | Ipomoea purpurea
Description:
Morning Glory offers solid and variegated blooms of pink, white and purple. Once planted, morning glory will climb whatever it is close to and can reach lengths above 6ft, and easily self-sow each year. We recommend growing morning glory along a trellis or fence to add privacy and beauty to your garden.
Planting Instructions:
- After final frost, sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep every 6 inches in full sun, thin to 1.
Saving Seeds:
- When morning glory seeds are ready to be collected they will be contained in small globe shaped brown seed pods. Collect them only when the pods are dry and the seed are black.
- Seeds not collected are likely to self sow easy season.
Morning Glory is a wonderful addition to any garden, providing vibrant colors and natural climbing beauty. Its ability to self-sow ensures a continuous display year after year, making it both a practical and visually appealing choice.
Annual | Helianthus spp.
Description:
We love growing sunflowers in our gardens. Bees and birds love them too! Ranging from 3-8 feet, sunflowers add the perfect burst of color and texture to any garden. We keep our sunflower stalks all winter, as many of our native bee species use them over the winter months.
Planting Instructions:
After the final frost, sow 2 seeds ½ inch deep every 1 ½ feet in full sun, thin to 1.
Saving Seeds:
- Competing with the birds may be a challenge when it comes to saving your sunflower seeds, a sign that the seeds are ready. Dry the sunflower heads, remove the seeds from the head, store in a cool dry place. Freeze the seeds before storing in a glass jar with a desiccant packet.
Sunflower Mix is a fantastic addition to any garden, providing vibrant colors and supporting local wildlife. Their tall, sturdy stalks and beautiful blooms make them a standout feature, while their seeds offer nourishment for both birds and bees.
Annual | Tagetes patula
Description:
Marigolds are great for companion planting. Growing to about one foot tall, marigolds add a nice color to the garden and help attract beneficial insects.
Planting Instructions:
- 4 weeks before frost, sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep indoors. After frost, transplant outdoors 1 foot apart.
Saving Seeds:
- Let marigold flower heads mature on the plant until they are dry and turn brown. Remove spent petals and open the pod to reveal seeds. Dry completely and store in a dark, cool place. We recommend storing in a glass jar with a desiccant packet.
Marigolds are a wonderful addition to any garden, providing vibrant color and supporting beneficial insects. Their ease of growth and seed-saving potential make them a practical and beautiful choice for gardeners.
Annual | Zinnia spp.
Description:
We absolutely love growing zinnias in our gardens. Their 3-foot tall blooms sway to and fro, and offer a bounty of color. Perfect for attracting our favorite pollinators. Blossoms hold up when cutting, making them a wonderful gift or addition to your home.
Planting Instructions:
- 4 weeks before frost, sow 2 seeds ¼ inch deep indoors. After frost, transplant outdoors 1 foot apart.
Saving Seeds:
- To save zinnia seeds, allow flower heads to dry completely on the plant. Once flowers are dry and brown, remove the heads. Remove the petals from the flower head; at the base of the petal, there will be a flat arrow-shaped seed. Dry completely and store in a dark, cool place. We recommend storing in a glass jar with a desiccant packet.
Zinnia Mix is a delightful addition to any garden, providing vibrant colors and attracting pollinators. Their sturdy blooms make them perfect for cut flowers, adding beauty both outdoors and indoors.
Self Sowing Annual | Phacelia tanacetifolia
Description:
Phacelia, often called “bee’s best friend,” is a beautiful and beneficial addition to the garden. This fast-growing annual produces clusters of delicate, lavender-blue flowers that bloom in a spiral pattern, adding charm to flower beds and vegetable plots alike. Beyond its ornamental appeal, Phacelia is a powerhouse pollinator attractor, drawing in bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the growing season. It also improves soil health as a green manure and cover crop, making it a favorite among organic gardeners. Whether planted for its beauty, its ecological benefits, or both, Phacelia brings vitality to any garden space.
Planting Instructions:
- 2 weeks before the final frost, sow 2 seeds indoors in individual cells or pots. Once the seedlings have developed strong roots and outdoor temperatures have stabilized, transplant them outdoors, spacing each plant 1 foot apart in a location with full sun to partial shade.
Saving Seeds:
- To save Phacelia seeds, allow the flower heads to dry completely on the plant. Once they turn brown and brittle, clip the seed heads and place them in a paper bag. Shake gently to release the small, dark seeds. Store seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for the following season.
Phacelia reseeds readily, making it a low-maintenance favorite for continuous garden enrichment.
Self Sowing Annual | Anethum graveolens
Description:
Dill is a delicate and aromatic herb that brings a feathery, fresh touch to the community garden. This plant grows up to 2–3 feet tall, with wispy green leaves that are commonly used to flavor pickles, salads, and seafood dishes. Its sweet, grassy aroma and light anise flavor make it a favorite for both fresh use and drying. As the season progresses, dill produces umbrella-like clusters of yellow flowers, followed by seeds that are equally valuable in the kitchen. Dill seeds can be harvested and used whole or ground as a spice, adding a warm, slightly bitter depth to breads, soups, and stews. With both leaves and seeds offering unique flavors, dill is a dual-purpose herb that’s easy to grow and even easier to love.
Planting Instructions:
- In early Spring, sow 2 seeds 1/8 inch deep every 4 inches in full sun.
Saving Seeds:
- To save dill seeds, allow the plants to bolt and form flower heads. Once the seed heads turn brown and dry on the stem, cut them off and place them in a paper bag to catch any falling seeds.
- Gently shake or rub the dried seed heads to release the seeds, then store them in a cool, dark place. A glass jar with a desiccant packet works best to maintain their quality.
With its aromatic leaves and versatile seeds, dill is a must-have herb that brings fresh flavor and a hint of history to every dish.
Annual | Lagenaria siceraria
Description:
Gourds are a fascinating and functional addition to any garden. The vigorous vines produce large, hard shelled fruits, perfect for crafting natural birdhouses once dried. As they grow, the gourds can reach sizes ideal for cavity-nesting birds like wrens and chickadees. Their vining habit also makes them a fun option for trellises and fences.
Planting Instructions:
- After the last frost, sow 2 seeds every 3 to 5 feet and thin to 1 strong plant per spot. Allow plenty of space to spread—vines can grow over 20 feet long, or can be trained up sturdy vertical supports.
Saving (and Curing) Seeds:
- Curing: Leave gourds on the vine as long as possible until the stems turn brown and the skin hardens. Some surface mold may appear—this is a normal part of the curing process. Once hardened, harvest and store in a warm, well-ventilated area to continue drying for several weeks to months.
- Cleaning: After curing, clean gourds using a 1:10 bleach-to-water solution. Scrub with steel wool to remove mold and surface debris, leaving a smooth, finished surface.
- Saving Seeds: Seeds can be collected from fully dried, mature gourds. Cut open the gourd while crafting (birdhouses are our favorite!), scoop out the seeds, and allow them to dry completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
Self Sowing Annual | Eruca sativa
Description:
Arugula is a fast-growing, peppery green that adds a bold, zesty flair to the community garden. Reaching 8–12 inches in height, this leafy vegetable is known for its tender, lobed leaves that deliver a distinctive spicy bite. Often found in salads, sandwiches, and pestos, arugula’s sharp flavor is balanced by a subtle nuttiness that deepens as the plant matures. As it bolts in warmer weather, arugula sends up delicate white or pale yellow flowers streaked with purple veins—edible and slightly sweet, they make a lovely garnish. Young leaves are milder and best harvested early, while older leaves develop a more pronounced pungency. Whether used fresh or lightly sautéed, arugula brings vibrant taste and nutrition to every meal.
Planting Instructions:
- In early Spring or Fall, sow seeds ¼ inch deep, 1 inch apart, in rows spaced 6–12 inches apart in full sun or partial shade.
Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart once established for optimal growth.
Saving Seeds:
- To save arugula seeds, allow some plants to fully bolt and develop seed pods. Once the pods turn brown and dry on the stem, clip the stalks and place them in a paper bag.
- Let them dry completely, then crush the pods gently to release the seeds.
- Store the cleaned seeds in a labeled envelope or airtight container in a cool, dark place. With its bold flavor, quick growth, and edible flowers, arugula is a spirited addition to any garden bed or salad bowl.
Annual | Phaseolus vulgaris
Description:
Buckeye beans are a hearty and attractive heirloom legume, prized for their rich, earthy flavor and distinctive appearance. These medium-sized beans boast a striking chestnut brown. Grown on bushy plants that reach 18–24 inches tall, Buckeye beans thrive in warm weather and reward gardeners with pods full of nutritious seeds. When cooked, they offer a creamy texture and full-bodied taste that makes them ideal for soups, chili, or baked bean dishes. Dried beans store well and are a staple in the pantry for winter meals. With their visual appeal and robust culinary uses, Buckeye beans are a beautiful blend of form and function.
Planting Instructions:
- After the last frost, sow seeds 1 inch deep and 3–4 inches apart in rows spaced 18–24 inches apart in full sun.
Ensure soil is well-drained and warm.
Saving Seeds:
- To save Buckeye bean seeds, allow pods to mature and dry completely on the plant until they rattle when shaken.
- Harvest the dry pods, shell the beans, and spread them out in a single layer to finish drying indoors for about a week.
- Store thoroughly dried beans in a glass jar or paper envelope in a cool, dark, and dry location.
- With their striking colors, hardy nature, and deep flavor, Buckeye beans are a garden classic that connects tradition and taste in every bite.
Annual | Phaseolus vulgaris
Description:
Cranberry beans are a vibrant and flavorful heirloom legume, celebrated for their creamy texture and eye-catching coloration. The plump, oval beans are ivory with striking streaks of deep red or magenta, resembling the pattern of cranberries—though they’re unrelated to the fruit. Grown on compact bush plants reaching 18–24 inches tall, cranberry beans are easy to grow and highly productive in warm, sunny conditions. Their rich, nutty flavor and smooth consistency make them a favorite for Italian, Portuguese, and South American dishes, especially in soups, stews, and salads. While fresh-shelled beans offer a buttery bite, dried beans hold their shape well and develop even deeper flavor. These beans are as beautiful as they are delicious, bringing both color and nourishment to the garden and table.
Planting Instructions:
- Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, 1–1½ inches deep and 4 inches apart, in rows 18–24 inches apart in full sun.
Cranberry beans prefer loose, well-drained soil and benefit from consistent moisture during flowering and pod development.
Saving Seeds:
- To save seeds, allow pods to mature and dry fully on the plant until they are brittle and tan.
- Harvest the pods before rain sets in, then shell and lay the beans out in a single layer to dry for an additional week indoors.
- Store fully dried seeds in a cool, dry place in a breathable container such as a paper envelope or a glass jar with a desiccant packet.
Annual | Phaseolus vulgaris
Description:
Alubia Blanca beans are a small, elegant white bean known for their smooth texture, delicate flavor, and versatility in the kitchen. Originating from Spain, these creamy legumes are prized in traditional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, where they are often featured in stews, soups, and salads. The plants grow low and bushy, typically reaching 18–24 inches in height, and are well-suited to warm, sunny climates. When cooked, Alubia Blanca beans maintain their shape while offering a tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Their mild, slightly nutty flavor allows them to absorb surrounding seasonings beautifully, making them a staple for both rustic dishes and refined plates. Whether used fresh or dried, these beans are a gardener’s treasure and a cook’s delight.
Planting Instructions:
- Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, 1 inch deep and 3–4 inches apart, in rows spaced 18–24 inches apart.
- Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged during flowering and pod set.
Saving Seeds:
- To save Alubia Blanca seeds, allow the pods to remain on the plant until they turn brown and dry completely.
- Harvest the pods, shell the beans, and spread them in a single layer to air-dry for about a week indoors.
- Store thoroughly dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place—ideal for planting or cooking in the seasons ahead.
Annual | Bracteantha bracteata
Description:
Strawflowers are vibrant, long-lasting blooms that bring color and texture to the community garden—and beyond. Native to Australia, these drought-tolerant annuals grow up to 2–3 feet tall and produce stiff, papery flowers in a stunning range of colors, including gold, orange, pink, red, and white. Their unique texture gives them a “dry” feel even when fresh, making them ideal for cut flower arrangements and especially prized for dried floral crafts. Strawflowers attract pollinators throughout the growing season and continue to bloom prolifically until the first frost. Their blooms hold their color and shape remarkably well after cutting, offering a low-maintenance way to preserve summer’s beauty all year long.
Planting Instructions:
- Start indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after danger of frost has passed.
- Sow seeds on the surface (they need light to germinate) and lightly press into the soil.
- Space seedlings 10–12 inches apart in full sun and well-drained soil.
Saving Seeds:
- To save strawflower seeds, allow some flower heads to fully mature and dry on the plant.
- Once the seed heads are fluffy and dry, gently pull them apart to collect the small, lightweight seeds attached to tiny tufts.
- Store seeds in a labeled envelope or jar in a cool, dry place until next planting season.
Seed Distribution Locations
Why is Saving Seeds Important?
Food Sovereignty: Saving seeds allows future generations to grow their own food, preserving food culture.
Biodiversity: Seed saving protects and preserves plant varieties, ensuring diversity in our gardens.
Self-Sufficiency: Growing your own seed stock means less reliance on commercial seed catalogs and companies.
Pollinator Support: Plants grown from saved seeds help create a welcoming environment for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Community Sharing: Distributing seeds to local residents strengthens the local food network and encourages collaboration.
