EB Grow Seed Library

About EB Grow

EB Grow is a joint project of the East Brunswick Public Library and the Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission.  The seed library created through this partnership is housed at the library in an effort to introduce residents to gardening, provide education on seed-saving, and encourage patrons to develop a passion for sustainability and hands-on learning.

Come in to “borrow” seeds for your garden. We have easy-to-grow seeds to plant that will do well in our climate, so your garden will grow! Return unused seeds or seeds saved from your own crop to the library so that other gardeners can also enjoy planting them.

To Check Out Visit the EB Grow Display Kiosk near the Information Desk starting February 23.

Start Your Garden

So you want to start your garden from seed? Below is a recipe for success!
 
Ingredients

• Seeds from EB Grow
• Information from back of seed packet
• Seed starting potting mix (not regular garden soil)
• Small containers with drainage holes
• Zip-top plastic bags
• Light source (sunlight or grow lights) [Are you an EBPL cardholder? You can borrow lights for free!]
• Water
• Spray bottle

Directions
 
To start your seeds, pre-moisten the seed starting mix with water so it is damp to the touch. Fill your containers leaving ¼” space at the top. Plant one or two seeds in each container. Place containers into zip-top plastic bags (don’t forget to label them), and place in a warm area (65–70° F).
 
Remember to check your seeds daily by opening the plastic bags and touching the top soil (it should feel moist). If the soil feels dry, apply 2–3 sprays of water.
 
Once your seedlings germinate, remove the containers from the plastic bags and place them in a sunny area—seedlings need 16-18 hours of light per day to stay healthy. When the top soil appears dry, water your seedlings from the bottom. Don’t overwater—that is the most likely cause of seedling loss!
 
One week before planting outdoors, acclimate the seedlings by placing them outside in a place protected from wind during the day, then bring inside at night. Then it’s time to plant them in your garden!
 
Adapted from the NJ Agricultural Extension Service (njaes.rutgers.edu)
 

Gardening Books

Local Resources

Online Resources

East Brunswick Planting Schedule

April 1

April 15

Bean - bush, pole
Cucumber
Peas
Herbs
Peppers
Perennials
 

May 1

Annuals (check seed packet)
Bean - bush, pole
Beet
Peas
 

June 1-30

Bean - bush
Beet
Leafy greens, lettuce
Peas

Adapted from Burpee Growing Calendar for Zones 7-8 & Rutgers Master Gardeners