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Growing Hope: BCSL Launch Party
As we look ahead to spring, we have exciting news to share—our Seed Library Launch Party is set for March 8 from noon-3pm! This annual event is our way of kicking off the growing season with hands-on activities, seed giveaways, and opportunities to connect with fellow gardeners. We'll be bringing back some favorite activities while introducing a few new ones. Full details will be in our March newsletter, so keep an eye out!
At the same time, we’re reminded of how vital seed saving is—not just for our own gardens, but for resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. The devastating fires in Los Angeles have led the Altadena Seed Library to put out a call for locally grown and adapted seed donations to help their community regrow. While we can’t directly provide the seeds they need, their request serves as an important reminder for us: if we ever face similar challenges, having a strong community of seed savers growing and preserving native and regionally adapted seeds will be crucial. You can read more about their efforts here and follow their work on Instagram and Facebook.
A recent guide published by the Organic Seed Alliance—"Climatic Considerations and Risks for Seed Production in the Midwest"—reinforces this idea. It highlights how saving and sharing regionally adapted seeds can help ensure food security and resilience in a changing climate. The Midwest's unique growing conditions present both challenges and opportunities for seed savers, making our work more important than ever. You can read more about this important research here.
By growing, saving, and sharing seeds, we are building a stronger, more sustainable food system—one that can withstand challenges both big and small. We hope you’ll join us on March 8 to celebrate the launch of another growing season and continue this important work together!
Look for full event details in our March newsletter. Until then, happy seed-saving!
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Seed Packing and Having Fun! Thank you to the team at Pace Analytical for helping to make sure we have enough seeds packed for the Launch Event. | |
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Microgreens: A Flavorful, Safe Way to Grow and Eat Fresh Greens
Microgreens are young, edible plants harvested at an early stage of growth, typically when they have developed their first true leaves. These tiny, nutrient-dense greens are packed with flavor and can be grown from a wide variety of seeds. They’re often used as garnishes, salads, or sandwich toppings, adding vibrant color and crunch to meals.
One of the unique aspects of microgreens is that you don't have to worry about using "true-to-type" seeds, since you're only eating the sprouted plants, not the mature vegetables or herbs. This makes microgreens an excellent option for using up older seed packets or those seeds you may not have enjoyed growing to full maturity. Seeds that didn’t produce the desired flavor or size when fully grown can still thrive as microgreens, giving you a second chance to enjoy them.
Microgreens are quick to grow, with most varieties ready to harvest in just 7 to 21 days, depending on the type. For example, radish and mustard microgreens tend to grow quickly and can be harvested in as little as 7–10 days, while pea and sunflower microgreens might take closer to 14–21 days.
Common seeds used for growing microgreens include:
- Radish: Quick-growing and spicy, radish microgreens are among the most popular.
- Mustard: With a mild, tangy flavor, mustard microgreens are great for adding zest to dishes.
- Pea: Sweet and crunchy, pea microgreens are favored for their mild taste and versatility.
- Sunflower: Nutty and crunchy, sunflower microgreens add a hearty texture to any salad or wrap.
- Broccoli: Known for their health benefits, broccoli microgreens have a mild, slightly peppery flavor.
While microgreens are a great way to add fresh greens to your meals, there are some safety concerns to keep in mind. Like other sprouts, microgreens are grown in moist, warm conditions, which can create an environment conducive to harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, it's essential to:
- Use clean, sterilized containers for growing.
- Wash hands and sanitize equipment before handling seeds and sprouts.
- Ensure the growing environment is properly ventilated to prevent mold or mildew.
- Rinse microgreens thoroughly before consuming them.
When selecting seeds, make sure to use those labeled as “sprouting” or “microgreens,” as they are safe for eating. Organic seeds or those from your own home-grown harvest are also a good choice. If you’re using soil or a growing medium, make sure it’s organic or untreated, as pesticide residues can be harmful. After harvesting, store microgreens in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days to keep them fresh and safe.
By following these simple safety steps, you can enjoy the flavor and nutrition of homegrown microgreens with peace of mind.
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
Open AI
| Water garden with sprouts and potted herbs enjoying some time under the grow lights. | |
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Salad Greens Year Round
To successfully grow salad greens indoors, it is essential to have the right tools. Here are some key considerations:
- Lighting: Natural direct sunlight is ideal, but if this is not available, LED grow lights can provide the necessary light spectrum for photosynthesis.
- Containers and Soil: Opt for small and light containers, preferably a recycled container. Use a high-quality indoor potting mix combined with fertilizer.
- Temperature and Humidity: Most salad greens thrive in temperatures between 60-70°F.
Certain varieties of salad greens are particularly well-suited for indoor growing, including spinach, arugula, broccoli, radish, sunflower, and peas.
Peter Burke’s Method (adapted for one container)
Container: Aluminum 4" x 8" loaf pan or plastic 5" x 7.5 “mushroom” container (do not put drainage holes in the bottom).
Fertilizer: 2 TBLS of vermicompost, 1 TSP kelp (sprinkle on the bottom of the container).
Growing Medium: 3 cups of peat moss or coconut coir, ½ cup of vermiculite, ½ cup of perlite, ¼ cup of limestone, 1 cup of water (mix together and add on top of fertilizer, lightly tap down).
Seeds: 2 TBLS large seeds, 1 TSP small seeds (soaked for 6-12 hours, then sprinkle evenly on top of the soil).
Covering: Fold a piece of newspaper to fix just over the edge of the container. Soak this in water for at least 10 minutes. (layer on top, lightly tap down, tuck edges inside of the container).
Placement: Set the container in a warm dark place. Observe daily to make sure the newspaper is staying damp. After a few days, the newspaper will start lifting up as the seeds germinate. Remove newspaper and move to a sunny window or put under grow lights.
Care: Check and water. An easy way to monitor water moisture is to lift the container. When it has little weight, it’s dry and in need of water. If you overwater, just slowly turn the container and pour out excess water.
Harvest: When microgreens are 2-3" tall, cut stems off at soil level with a scissor, rinse, and enjoy the freshness.
Growing salad microgreens indoors year-round is a fulfilling endeavor that brings numerous benefits, from cost savings to improved health. As more people embrace this sustainable practice, the future looks bright—and delicious—for home growers everywhere.
Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener
Open AI
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Book Review: Year-Round Indoor Salad Gardening
Year-Round Indoor Salad Gardening
by Peter Burke, format: book, ebook
This title is a guide for growing a year-round harvest of salad greens, in your kitchen if you so choose! It is a step-by-step plan that can be achieved with minimal equipment. Burke presents types of seeds and amounts recommended, compares available mediums for growing, and includes colorful photos throughout.
Submitted by Jennifer Classon, Brown County Central Library Associate and N.E.W. Master Gardener
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Calendar of Local Garden Related Events:
February 1 - May 10 ($)
Bountiful Branches Sale
Sale online, pickup at 2600 Larsen Rd
February 10, 6pm - 7pm (free)
The Buzz on Bees
Brown Co Library, Weyers-Hilliard Branch, 2680 Riverview Dr
February 11, 10am - noon (free)
Rob Zimmer: What's New in Gardening for 2025
Brown Co Library, Wrightstown Branch, 615 Main St, Wrightstown
February 11, noon - 1pm (free)
Raised Bed Gardening Demystified
Virtual, U of Minn Extension
February 13, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Composting
Virtual, UW Extension
February 14, noon - 1pm (free)
Winter pruning: Pruning cold climate grapes
Virtual, U of Minn Extension
February 15, 9:30am - 12pm & 12:30pm - 3pm (free)
Seed Packing Event
Green Bay Botanical Garden, 2600 Larsen Rd
February 17-21 1pm - 2:30pm (free)
Gardening from the Ground Up Series:
Monday, February 17: Embracing climate change:
how to prepare for weather whiplash
Tuesday, February 18: Non-traditional Lawns
Wednesday, February 19: Replacement Trees
Thursday, February 20: Planning and maintaining successful food forests
Friday, February 21: Adapting with Integrated Pest Management
February 20, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Vegetable Disease Management
Virtual, UW Extension
February 20, 6pm - 7pm (free)
National Panel Discussion: "Bees Beyond Honey:
Understanding Native and Managed Pollinators"
Virtual, Wild Ones
February 22, 10am - noon (free)
Winter Bird Feeding and Habitat with Rob Zimmer
for the Gardeners Club of Green Bay
Green Bay Botanical Garden, 2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay
February 24, 1:30pm - 2:30pm (free)
Ask Your Gardening Question: LIVE
Virtual, UW Extension
February 26, 6:30pm - 9pm (free)
Fundamentals of Plant Diseases
Virtual, UW Extension
February 27, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Vegetable Insect Management
Virtual, UW Extension
February 28, noon - 1pm (free)
Winter pruning: Pruning central leader and standard apple trees
Virtual, U of Minn Extension
March 6, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Weed Management
Virtual, UW Extension
March 8, 9am - 10am (free)
Tree Grafting Workshop
Brown County Central Library, 515 Pine St
March 8, noon - 3pm (free)
Seed Library Launch Party
Brown County Central Library, 515 Pine St
March 13, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Cover Crops for the Garden
Virtual, UW Extension
March 20, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Succession Planting, Companion Planting, and Season Extension
Virtual, UW Extension
March 22, 10am - noon (free)
House Plant Care and tips on overwintering summer plants indoors with the Gardeners Club of Green Bay
Green Bay Botanical Garden, 2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay
March 26, 10am - 11:30am ($)
What’s New in Gardening for 2025 with Rob Zimmer
Green Bay Botanical Garden, 2600 Larsen Rd
March 26, 6:30pm – 8:30pm (free)
Growing Healthy Plants – Basics in Plant Disease Management
Virtual, UW Extension
March 27, 5:30pm - 7:30pm ($)
Green Thumb Winter 2025: Seed Saving, Harvesting, and Storage
Virtual, UW Extension
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Microgreens Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
An easy recipe and super nutritious
Summer Fresh in Wintertime
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice (about ½ of lime)
Zest of lime
1 teaspoon of honey
¼ teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of pepper
2 cups of microgreens
In a bowl, whisk together the first six (6) ingredients.
Add microgreens to a bowl and pour dressing over.
Serve immediately.
Optional toppings:
Sliced or chopped, radish, cucumber, avocado, or sun-dried tomato
Submitted by Peggy, N.E.W. Master Gardener
Open AI
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Seed Saving & Plant Terminology
Gardening and seed saving becomes much easier when you understand some basic terms. Knowing these key definitions will help you navigate plant selection, pollination, and seed harvesting with confidence.
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Species – A class of living organisms that share common characteristics and can reproduce with one another. In scientific names, the species is always written second and in lowercase, while the genus name comes first and is capitalized. Example: Radish (Raphanus sativus), where "Raphanus" is the genus and "sativus" is the species.
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Variety – A naturally occurring variation within a plant species that has distinct traits. Example: French Breakfast Radish.
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Open-Pollinated (OP) – Plants that reproduce through natural pollination methods, such as wind, insects, or self-pollination, ensuring consistent traits in offspring.
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Hybrid (F1) – Plants produced by crossing two different varieties or species to create offspring with specific desired traits. Hybrids are not recommended for seed saving because their offspring may not resemble the parent plant.
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GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) – A plant or organism whose DNA has been artificially modified in a laboratory to introduce specific traits. These traits can come from the same species, closely related species, or entirely different organisms, including bacteria, other plants, or even animals. The goal is often to improve resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental stresses, or to enhance nutritional content.
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Biennial – A plant that requires two growing seasons to complete its life cycle, typically flowering and producing seeds in the second year. In colder climates, these plants must be overwintered for seed production. Example: Carrots and beets.
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Perfect Flower – A flower that contains both male (stamens) and female (pistils) reproductive structures, allowing self-pollination or cross-pollination.
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Cross-Pollination – The transfer of pollen from one plant’s flower to another plant’s flower, either naturally by wind or insects, or manually by hand.
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Fertilization – The process in which a pollen grain’s sperm cell fuses with an ovule inside the flower’s ovary, leading to seed formation. This occurs after successful pollination.
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Isolation – A technique used to prevent unintended cross-pollination by keeping plants of the same species separate. This can be achieved through distance isolation (planting varieties far enough apart to reduce pollen transfer), timing isolation (staggering planting so different varieties flower at different times), or physical barriers (using row covers, netting, or bagging flowers to control pollination).
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Chaff – The lightweight plant debris, such as seed husks and dried petals, that surrounds seeds after harvesting.
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Threshing – The process of breaking apart dried plant material to free the seeds. This can be done by hand, rubbing, or mechanical means.
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Winnowing – The process of using wind or air movement to separate heavier seeds from lighter chaff and other plant debris.
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Inbreeding Depression – A weakening of plant vigor and productivity caused by repeated self-pollination or using too few parent plants when saving seeds, leading to reduced genetic diversity.
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https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/techniques/reproductive-plant-parts
Submitted by Melissa, N.E.W. Master Gardener
Open AI
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Support the BCSL!
We are entirely supported by grants, donations and volunteers! If you are interested, there are many ways to support the BCSL.
*You can become a Seed Steward and support the library by growing out seeds from our core list to donate. We will accept seed donations by anyone who would like to donate, seeds can be dropped off at the STEM center or at the Central library.
*You can volunteer to sort and pack seeds. Opportunities will be posted on the New Leaf Foods Calendar of Events, included in our newsletters and posted with the Volunteer Center of Brown County.
*You can make a monetary donation through our Fiscal Agent, New Leaf Foods. Click here to donate.
*You can visit our Amazon Wish List, which has basic packing supplies that we utilize for preparing our seeds for distribution. Click here to access the wishlist.
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