Chicago seed swap, February 20 in Rogers Park

The Winter Seed Swap and Garden Gathering will be an opportunity for Chicago-area gardeners to share seeds* and discuss plans for the growing season. Participants will learn the basics of seed germination, how to use recyclables as starter pots, and how to transplant and protect tender seedlings. Come to find out how others maintain a garden in this area's charmingly variable climate.

The Winter Seed Swap and Garden Gathering will take place on February 20 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Rogers Park branch of the Chicago Public Library, 6907 N. Clark St. We will meet in the community room on the second floor. Everyone from the absolute novice to the backyard botanist is welcome to attend. The event is free.

For more information, contact Damon Taylor at (630)234-5168 or damon AT nmazca DOT com.

*For everyone's benefit:

1. Share seeds that will succeed. Seeds need to be clean, dry and no more than two years old. If in doubt, don't bring them. Passing off shaky seeds will just disappoint other gardeners.

2. Name that bloom. Seeds need to be identified. Bring them in the original package, if possible. If you can take the time, portion seeds into small, labeled zipper bags or envelopes. Don't worry about Latin names.

3. Remember: they're seeds, not sapphires. There's no reason to stuff your pockets or purses full. If your garden is 10'x10', 10 ounces of seed is too much. Take two seeds for each plant you want to grow.