🌱 Did you know you can pick up free vegetable, herb and flower seeds right here in Middlesbrough?
Thanks to the Community Growing Together project, delivered by Middlesbrough Environment City and funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, six seed libraries across the town now have more seeds to help more people discover the benefits of growing.
What is a seed library?
A seed library is exactly what it sounds like – a place where you can take seeds for free, grow them at home and even donate spare seeds back for others to enjoy. It’s a simple idea that helps communities share resources, reduce waste and encourage more people to grow their own food and flowers.
Why are seed libraries important?
🌱 They make gardening accessible to everyone
🥕 Help people grow fresh, healthy food at home
🌼 Support biodiversity by sharing a wide variety of plants
♻️ Encourage sustainable living and seed-saving skills
🤝 Bring communities together through a shared love of growing
Whether you have a large garden, an allotment, a balcony or just a sunny windowsill, there’s something for everyone. No experience is needed – seed libraries are designed to welcome complete beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Seed libraries can be found at Middlesbrough Central Library, Marton Community Hub & Library and Hemlington Community Hub & Library. An additional three seed libraries are soon to be opened at Grove Hill, Thorntree and Acklam.
At Middlesbrough Central Library, you’ll also find a plant pot exchange, free plants and cuttings. All of the libraries have a range of gardening books to borrow and inspire your next growing project.
Gardening is more than just a hobby. It improves physical and mental wellbeing, connects us with nature and rewards us with fresh, nutritious food. By sharing seeds, knowledge and enthusiasm, we’re helping Middlesbrough grow stronger, healthier and greener together.
💚 A huge thank you to National Lottery players, whose support through The National Lottery Community Fund has helped make these seed libraries possible.
