Who knew that you could borrow seeds from the Madison Public Library?  A lot of people, apparently.  So far this year, the Madison Public Library’s Seed Library has given away nearly 2,000 seed packets, including flowers, herbs, and produce seeds.

Here’s a sampling of the seeds available at participating Madison libraries (Lakeview Library or Goodman South Madison Library):Madison Seed Library

  • Bush Green Beans
  • Beets
  • Collards
  • Cucumbers
  • Flowers: Cosmos, Marigolds, Nasturtiums, Pansies, Sunflowers, Zinnias
  • Herbs: Basil, Chives, Cilantro, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage
  • Kale (lacinato)
  • Lettuce
  • Melon: Cantaloupe, Watermelon
  • Pie Pumpkin
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Squash: Butternut, Zucchini
  • Sugarsnap Peas
  • Peppers: Sweet bell type, Hot
  • Tomatoes: Cherry type, Slicer type

Borrowing seeds from Madison Public Library is free.  Just call ahead 608-266-6300 to let them know what seeds you would like and they’ll get them ready for pick-up at your library location.  Then grow your plants and enjoy the harvest.  If you’re able, collect and return some seeds although there is no penalty for not returning seeds.