4th Annual Community Seed Exchange in Niwot (2026)

First time attending a seed exchange for me yesterday, this one the 4th Annual Community Seed Exchange in downtown Niwot, at the Niwot Hall (formerly Niwot Grange) on a very cold but sunny winter day.  The Exchange was for two hours, 11 AM to 1 PM.  

A $5 donation at the door was appreciated but wasn't required to attend.

Once inside, there are separate tables allocated to different types of seeds (e.g. herbs, greens, tomatoes, onions, flowers, squash/pumpkins, etc.)

 

 

I observed three types of seed donations:

1. A few seed companies provided new seed packs, as promotions
2. Individuals donated partially used packs of seeds
3. And individuals also packaged and contributed seeds that they harvested locally from their plants

 

Seed gathering etiquette was to take only the seeds you needed and never an entire pack. Rough guidance was given, like this example:  If you wanted to grow four tomato plants of a given type, take 12 seeds. Little envelopes were provided as long as they lasted, as well as other small containers (e.g. spice jars) and you were encouraged to bring your own.  Also, it was very important to bring your own marker/Sharpie to label your seeds in your envelopes and jars. 

 

 

In addition to seed tables, a few organizations and groups also had information tables, including for pollinator awareness, bear protection, and advice from master gardeners.

 

A big thanks to the gardener who supplied me with these seeds for Armenian Cucumbers, who told me they are the best ever for our Front Range climate, and supplied a helpful description!  Can't wait to give them a try.   

It's fun to think about gardening in the dead of winter.  

One more note.  The Longmont Public Library often hosts a seed exchange, filed away using one of their old wooden card catalogs.  Check with them to see if this is still available.