Get ready for the growing season with a seed swap. There will be seeds and plants to share and a gardeners' rummage sale including gardening tools, books, etc. Enjoy coffee, tea and treats by donation.

This event is hosted by the Washington State University (WSU) Extension Service of Island County Master Gardeners, Deer Lagoon Grange and South Whidbey Tilth. Bring your questions for Master Gardeners and our own experts.

Volunteers Needed

Tilth members are needed to make this event successful. Join us Saturday, March 14 at noon at the Grange Hall to set up, or contact Prescott, membership@southwhidbeytilth.org.

For more details and to schedule yourself on SignUpGenius.

Donations of rummage sale items, gardening tools and books in good condition, may be dropped off at the Grange Hall between 10 a.m. and 12 noon on Saturdays, March 7 or 14, or make arrangements with Margaret King at margaretking@whidbey.com.

Please bring disease-free seeds and plants on Sunday, March 15.

Here are some guidelines for seeds:

• Edible and ornamental seeds welcome.

• ‘Bring open seed packets from the garden store.

• Bring seeds you have saved in a clearly labeled baggie or envelope.

• Do not bring seeds collected from hybrid plants, as they won't grow true to type.

• Bring seed that is viable--in other words, not too old! Most seeds will remain viable for 2-4 years if kept in a cool, dry place, out of the light. Some seeds (onions, leeks, parsnips, celery, spinach) are only good for a year unless stored especially well.

• Make sure your seeds are clearly labeled with crop type, variety name, and the date they were packaged/harvested.