Sowing New Seeds

Global and local changes are turning public interest to exotic crop growing. With this, the demand is increasing for exotic seeds and information on their cultivation and usage, yet relatively few varieties are commercially available. Ethnic growers have imported or saved the seeds and adapted these varieties, yet, these growers are frequently isolated from traditional gardening networks. Through the Midlands networks of the National Society of Allotments and Leisure Gardeners, Groundwork, Black Environment Network, Soil Association CSA network, Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens, Women's Environmental Network and Garden Organic, BME "Seed Stewards' will be invited to share their locally-adapted varieties and knowledge. These varieties will be evaluated and demonstrated to growers groups through sharing and training on 'best practice' management. An Exotic Seed Collection and inspirational Exotic Urban Garden will maintain and make these resources available for long term usage throughout England.