Podcast appearances and mentions of bill mcdorman

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman explore the idea of the seed commons—seeds as shared cultural, ecological, and community wealth rather than private commodities. They discuss how market-driven seed systems have eroded biodiversity and why community-based models are essential for resilience in the face of climate, economic, and social uncertainty. Through stories, examples, and lived experience, they show how seed co-ops, exchanges, libraries, and grassroots experimentation restore abundance, adaptability, and human connection. The conversation frames seed saving as both a practical survival skill and a deeply human act of stewardship.Key Topics & EntitiesSeed commonsShared wealthBiodiversity lossClimate change adaptationSeed co-opsAppalachian SeedsSnake River Seed CooperativeSeed exchangesSeed librariesSeed Library NetworkSeeds in CommonOpen-pollinated seedsIndigenous and community seed stewardshipWhat does it mean to treat seeds as part of the commons?Seeds are framed as shared wealth—like air or water—meant to circulate freely so they can keep adapting, carrying cultural memory, and supporting future generations rather than being locked behind patents or profit motives.Why is the current market-based seed system failing biodiversity?Large-scale commercial systems prioritize uniformity and profit, leading to the extinction of many traditional varieties and reducing the genetic diversity needed to adapt to climate and ecological change.How do seed co-ops work in practice?Regional growers collaborate to grow, clean, package, and distribute seeds together, sharing labor and profits while keeping ownership local and ensuring regionally adapted varieties remain available.What role do seed exchanges and seed libraries play in communities?They provide accessible, low-cost ways for people to share seeds, stories, and growing knowledge, strengthening trust, local resilience, and intergenerational learning.What is unique about the Seeds in Common model?Instead of preserving varieties separately, Seeds in Common mixes many varieties together and distributes them widely, prioritizing real-world adaptation and survival over strict categorization or commercial naming.Can individuals really name and steward new plant varieties?Yes—historically, many important crops came from backyard growers. Naming and caring for a variety is an act of responsibility, not ownership, rooted in long-term stewardship rather than profit.Episode HighlightsSeeds as shared wealth are essential for resilience, adaptability, and cultural continuity.Seed co-ops like Appalachian Seeds and Snake River Seed Cooperative keep control local and varieties alive.Seed exchanges offer efficient, story-rich ways to share seeds and knowledge within communities.Seed libraries have rapidly grown worldwide, each shaped by local values and creativity.Mixing and growing diverse seeds reveals what truly works under local, low-input conditions.Naming and saving seeds is a deeply human tradition that predates modern agriculture.Abundance thinking emerges naturally when people engage directly with growing and saving seed.Calls to Action & ResourcesJoin live Seed Chats — https://seedchat.orgExplore regional seed co-ops —

Seed Chat with Bill McDormanGreg Peterson and seed expert Bill McDorman dig into the urgent need for climate-resilient seeds as global conditions shift. They explore how traditional varieties falter under heat, drought, flooding, and unpredictable weather—and why locally adapted, open-pollinated seeds are becoming essential tools for regional food security. Bill outlines practical pathways for gardeners and growers to build resilience through diversity, landrace gardening, and modern microbiome research. Together they offer a grounded, hopeful roadmap for anyone looking to future-proof their garden or local food system.Key TopicsClimate-resilient seedsOpen-pollinated varietiesLocal adaptationLandrace gardeningSoil microbiome & mycorrhizaeRizophagy (Dr. James White, Rutgers)Elliot ColemanJohn JeavonsAl Gore COP30 climate updateHeritage grains & wheat diversitySeed libraries & seed exchangesNational seed infrastructure concernsJoseph Lofthouse & Going to SeedGenetic diversity & heterosisKey Questions AnsweredWhy do traditional seed varieties fail under climate chaos?Because they were bred for stable, narrow climate ranges with controlled inputs—conditions that no longer exist. Locally adapted seeds handle stress better and evolve alongside changing weather patterns.How can home gardeners contribute to climate adaptation?By introducing maximum genetic diversity into their gardens—mixing varieties, saving seeds, and participating in regional seed exchanges. This creates plant populations that actively adapt to local conditions.What is landrace gardening and why does it matter now?Landrace gardening mixes many varieties of the same crop and lets natural selection reveal the most resilient performers. It dramatically increases adaptability and requires less space and time than traditional trialing.How do soil organisms like mycorrhizae and bacteria affect climate resilience?They increase nutrient uptake, boost disease resistance, and help plants tolerate extreme conditions. Emerging rizophagy research shows plants actively cultivate microbes to meet stress.What resources should new growers explore to build resilience?Classics like The New Organic Grower (Elliot Coleman), How to Grow More Vegetables (John Jeavons), Joseph Lofthouse's Landrace Gardening, and foundational seed-saving guides.Episode HighlightsClimate resilience requires local action, not waiting for national agricultural reform.Al Gore's COP30 update emphasizes the urgency of transitioning agriculture.Soil microbiology breakthroughs (rizophagy) are reshaping how we understand plant roots.Most commercial varieties were never tested across wide climates—huge opportunity remains.Wheat alone has 400,000 documented varieties, yet only a handful dominate U.S. production.Diversity—not uniformity—is the foundation of resilience.Landrace gardening allows growers to trial hundreds of varieties in small spaces.Seed sharing and regional networks may become essential if national systems weaken.Calls to Action & ResourcesSeed Chat Live — SeedChat.orgGoing to Seed...

A Seed Shat with Bill McDormanRegister for our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this month's Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss the pressing issue of seed sovereignty in the age of corporate control. They highlight the growing dominance of a few corporations over the global seed supply, which has resulted in decreased biodiversity and increased farmer dependency. The conversation covers the importance of local seed libraries, open-source seed models, and the traditional practice of saving and sharing seeds as pathways to food freedom. Additionally, they emphasize the detrimental impact of capitalism on biodiversity, discuss historical and legal contexts like the Diamond vs. Chakrabarty Supreme Court decision, and introduce various resources and organizations working to combat corporate control in agriculture, such as the ETC group and Seed Library Network. Practical advice for listeners includes growing a diverse range of seeds, starting or joining seed libraries, and engaging in community-driven agricultural initiatives.List of mentioned resources:· First The Seed, the Political Economy of Plant Biotechnology. https://uwpress.wisc.edu/Books/F/First-the-Seed· Shattering by Pat Mooney and Carrie Fowler· https://SeedupInABox.com· https://GreatAmericanSeedUp.org· Diamond Vs Chakbarty - https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/447/303/· Liberate Diversity - https://liberatediversity.org· There's an ongoing international survey hosted by Let's Liberate Diversity https://seeds.ifoam.bio/seed-network-survey· First the Seed: The Political Economy of Plant Biotechnology, Jack Ralph Kloppenburg, Jr.https://uwpress.wisc.edu/Books/F/First-the-Seed2· Consolidation in the Seed Industry - https://philhoward.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/seed2022.png· Seeds & Genetic Diversity - https://www.etcgroup.org/issues/seeds-genetic-diversity· ETC Group- https://www.etcgroup.org/issues/corporate-monopolies· Going to Seed - https://goingtoseed.org/· Adaptation Gardening - https://goingtoseed.org/products/1406309· Seed Library Network -

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this months Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman, discuss the art and craft of harvesting seeds. They cover the basics of seed saving, including observation, threshing, and water winnowing, with a focus on tomatoes. The chat also delves into various resources, books, and historical practices for effective seed harvesting. They answer audience questions, including issues with onion seed pollination and share personal anecdotes and practical tips for both small-scale and larger-scale seed saving. The session emphasizes the importance of creating a new seed-saving culture and learning from experienced gardeners.Visit UrbanFarm.org/911 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A seed chat with Bill McDormanOur monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman chat about the transition from summer gardening to planting wildflowers, cover crops, and grains. The conversation covers the benefits of wildflowers, emphasizing their role in permaculture and ecological wealth. They highlight successful gardening practices, including using grains and legumes as cover crops to maintain soil health. Listeners learn about the historical significance and nutritional benefits of ancient grains, alongside practical advice on using grain mills for home processing.Visit UrbanFarm.org/906 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: Greg and Bill McDorman explore why seed saving virtually disappeared. They reveal how, historically, seed saving was an integral practice for gardeners and farmers, promoting more resilient and adaptable crops. However, the industrialization of agriculture and commercialization of seeds in the 20th century led to a decline in this practice due to economic pressures and the introduction of laws favoring seed patents and protections. Bill recounts the historical developments, including the idea of patenting of plants in the 1930s and the eventual patenting of seeds in the 1980s. The conversation also highlights success stories like the revival of Sonoran White Wheat in Arizona, demonstrating how communities can reclaim and share seeds to build local resilience. They encourage listeners to engage in seed saving and participate in seed libraries to foster a sustainable and abundant agricultural system.Visit UrbanFarm.org/894 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 900 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Join our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: Greg and Bill navigate the evolution of seed ownership and its impact on biodiversity. They highlight how, historically, seeds were predominantly grown locally, fostering diversity. However, today, four major companies dominate the global seed market, resulting in a significant loss of agricultural diversity. This shift has made the food system vulnerable to diseases and climate change, which were traditionally mitigated by seed diversity. Efforts to preserve genetic diversity through seed banks are underfunded and face operational challenges, raising concerns about future accessibility. The conversation emphasizes the importance of local seed saving and sharing initiatives as a means to reclaim control over seeds. Resources like Seed Up Saturday and organizations such as goingtoseed.org are promoted as vital tools for increasing seed diversity within communities. The session concludes with encouragement for individuals to actively participate in seed saving and sharing to enhance local food security and biodiversity.For a full article on this topic visit - Who Really Owns The Seeds That Feed UsVisit UrbanFarm.org/887-seed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 900 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Getting the Most Seed Diversity to the Most PeopleReplay of Seed Up Saturday 2025Hosted by Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson, focusing on increasing seed diversity and local seed stewardship. Sponsored by GreatAmericanSeedUp.org and SeedUpInABox.com, the event encourages community-based seed saving efforts. Guest speakers include Julia Dakin of Going to Seed, Rebecca Newburn from Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, and Bevin Cohen of Small House Farm. Topics covered include the importance of seed diversity, the role of community seed saving, seed libraries, and sustainable agricultural practices. The session also introduces 'Seed Up in a Box', an initiative to distribute bulk, inexpensive, open-pollinated seeds. The event concluded with a discussion on maintaining engagement in seed saving, and various practices to promote local seed diversity.Useful links from this eventBevin Cohen - https://www.SmallHouseFarm.comJulie Dakin - https://GoingToSeed.orgRebecca Newburn - https://www.SeedLibraryNetwork.org And Greg & Bill - https://SeedUpInABox.com

Growing Self-Sufficiency Through Seeds - A Seed ChatOur monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this months Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman, explore how saving seeds fosters independence, self-sufficiency, and better food production. They delve into the conversation that by saving seeds, gardeners can create a diverse and resilient plant community adapted to their local conditions. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, such as Greg's successful basil seed saving, and highlights the benefits of community gardening and seed sharing. They underscore the importance of growing food locally to combat the decline in nutritional quality associated with industrial agriculture and long-distance food transport. The hosts also mention the Great American Seed Up initiative to encourage widespread seed saving and promote food security..Visit UrbanFarm.org/883-seed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 900 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, the focus is on the importance of building resilient local seed and food economies. They elaborate on the six stages of the food economy — growing, harvesting, distribution, preparation, eating, and disposal — and stress the need for these processes to be circular, emphasizing composting and waste reuse. They identify seven components essential for a flourishing local food economy, including farming methods, education, harvesting and distribution, creating farmers, value-added products, culture, and local seeds. The conversation then shifts to the critical role of local seed economy and how everyone can participate by saving and sharing seeds. The benefits of seed saving, including the creation of surplus and unique, locally-adapted varieties, are highlighted. Joseph Lofthouse's concept of landrace gardening and 'Grex' is introduced, emphasizing the joy and importance of growing plants adapted to local conditions. Stories of localizing food systems, the pitfalls of dependence on industrial agriculture, and the value of volunteer plants further enrich the discussion. Both Greg and Bill encourage listeners to embrace growing, saving seeds, and actively participating in their local food economies..Visit www.urbanfarm.org/875-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.orgIn This Podcast: In this months Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman, discuss seed planting, soil temperatures, and techniques for successful gardening. They talk about the Great American Seed Up initiative, which aims to provide communities with affordable seeds through bulk purchases and local events. Highlighting the importance of community involvement in seed resilience, Bill shares a story of a successful effort by a Mormon community in Idaho. The conversation also covers tips for starting seeds indoors with seed mats, avoiding root-bound plants, and the significance of perennial herbs. The discussion emphasizes the vital role of seeds in local food security and sustainability, encouraging people to participate in community seed-saving efforts..Visit UrbanFarm.org/870-seed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

A Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman discuss seed-saving and the importance of embracing creativity and chaos in gardening, particularly during winter. They delve into personal anecdotes about sustainable practices and running businesses, highlighting the intersections of fear, excitement, and change in various aspects of life. Additionally, they touch on the evolving practices in permaculture and grain cultivation, particularly Kernza, and its potential for sustainable agriculture. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/858-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

851: Seed ConferencesA Seed Chat with Special Guest Julia DakinIn this episode, Greg from Urban Farm U hosts a seed chat with Julia Dakin, co-founder of the nonprofit Going to Seed. They discuss Julia's work in promoting seed sovereignty and adapting crops to local conditions. Julia shares her mission of transforming agriculture from an industrialized system to one focused on community and ecological resilience. They delve into the organization's programs, including seed diversity initiatives and supporting farmers in adapting crops to their specific environments. Julia also talks about her participation in the California Organic Seed Summit, addressing issues like land access, seed cooperatives, and engaging younger farmers. The conversation highlights the importance of genetic diversity in seeds for nutrient-dense crops and resilient food systems. .Julia Dakin is the co founder of Going to Seed, an organization dedicated to promoting seed sovereignty and teaching growers how to adapt crops to local conditions and community preferences. For several years she has been working in community driven projects that focus on adapting gardens for for climate and community resilience using ancestral techniques.Julia leads initiatives that empower local growers to build resilient, locally adapted food systems, enhancing community resilience and food diversity.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/851-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

848: Cultivating Ancient Grains for Modern HealthA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg and Bill discuss the dual benefits of growing ancient grains for both gut health and gardening. They explore the nutritional advantages of ancient grains, such as spelt, emmer, and einkorn, and their lesser known intolerance to gluten. They also address modern agricultural issues, including the presence of glyphosate and its impact on gut health. The conversation highlights practical aspects of growing grains, from seed selection to planting and harvesting, and the advantages of using heirloom grains in local economies. Listeners are encouraged to explore local grain varieties, connect with local growers, and consider the age-old method of sourdough bread making to enhance digestive health.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/847-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

841: Harvesting and StoringA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman host a monthly seed chat focused on harvesting and storing seeds. They discuss methods of dry and wet harvesting, particularly for tomatoes and squashes, and emphasize the importance of understanding plant families in seed collection. Various methods to ensure seed viability, such as proper drying and cool storage, are explored, along with the significance of seed diversity and the role of local seed libraries. The conversation also highlights the need for more individuals to start saving seeds to adapt to changing climates and revitalize local agriculture. .Visit www.urbanfarm.org/841-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

836: Seed Saving SecretsA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman discuss the fundamentals of seed saving, techniques for collecting and preparing seeds from various plants, and the benefits of maintaining genetic diversity. They also address specific audience questions about harvesting and storing seeds, and the effects of cross-pollination. The conversation emphasizes the importance of home-based seed saving for adapting plants to local conditions and mitigating the impacts of climate change..Visit www.urbanfarm.org/836-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

830: Seed Starting Essentials ExplainedA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanThis is the July 2024 Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss key aspects of nurturing seed starts for a thriving garden. They emphasize the importance of proper seed starting mediums, suggesting lightweight, aerated materials like perlite and cocoa peat over regular garden soil. They also highlight the need for adequate light, recommending artificial light setups if natural light is insufficient. Proper watering techniques are crucial, ensuring the soil remains moist without overwatering. They advocate for hands-on gardening and learning through observation and experimentation to achieve the best results.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/830-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

825: Selecting for Good Seed Stock.A chat with an expert on seeds.This is the June 2024 Seed Chat - In June's Seed Chat, Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson delve into the art of cultivating optimal seed stock straight from your garden. Discover the satisfaction of hand-selecting seeds that thrive in your unique microenvironment. Bill and Greg explore the importance of observing characteristics of your plants for selecting what you want and looking for obvious factors such as disease and insect resistance. Learn how to enhance your garden's resilience by selecting seeds adapted to local conditions in your garden or farm. Bill and Greg will present a green-thumb guide on curating seed stock that reflects your garden's personality and promises seasons of success. Come Chat with Us!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/825-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

819: How to Plant Your SeedsA chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the May 2024 Seed Chat - Whether you're a gardening novice or a seasoned enthusiast, join us for an engaging session where we'll identify the secrets of successful seed planting. Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson will guide you through the process, from selecting the right seeds to nurturing them into thriving plants. Learn about soil preparation, optimal planting depths, and the crucial role of sunlight and water. Discover insider tips for overcoming common challenges and ensuring a bountiful harvest. This interactive Seed Chat promises to cultivate your gardening skills and set you on the path to a vibrant, green future. Don't miss out on the opportunity to sow the seeds of success! Come Chat with Us!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/819-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

812: Seed Borne DiseasesA chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the April 2024 Seed Chat - Seed-borne diseases quietly jeopardize the vitality of crops, as seeds unwittingly harbor microscopic threats like fungi, bacteria, and pests. Bill and Greg will help you identify these pesky pests and guide you through the measures to screen for disease-resistant seeds to thwart these covert adversaries. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/812-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

807: Seeds, Are They Dead or Alive?A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the March 2024 Seed Chat - Don't throw away seeds collected for years. Do a germ test. Germination testing is a vital step to ensure seed viability before planting. We will talk about the process and show you how to determine the ratio of successful germination. Then you can plant the germinated seeds right into the ground. Learning how to germ test empowers growers with crucial insights into seed quality, helping you make informed decisions on seed selection and planting strategies. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds24mar for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

801: Flower Parts for Dummies. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the February 2024 Seed Chat - Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson simplify the intricate world of flower anatomy into digestible insights for any level of gardener. Emphasizing the relevance of understanding flower parts, the duo investigates flowers, and fruits, highlighting their functions and significance in plant life. Bill and Greg's informative and fun approach makes plant science accessible and relevant for all..Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds24feb for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

784: Wildflower Seed Chat. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the December 2023 Seed Chat - Who doesn't love wildflowers? Contrary to popular belief, you don't toss wildflowers on your land and hope that they grow.Like most crops, they need special tending to get them started. If you're really daring, you might mimic the patterns of the plants whose seeds you want to sprout. But keep in mind, wild plants put out thousands of seeds because so many of them don't make it. They're looking for the odds to be in their favor. Join Bill & Greg as they dive into this seedy topic.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23dec for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

784: Grains And Your Gut Instinct. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the November 2023 Seed Chat about how our modern-day grains have gone through huge genetic changes and many would say not particularly for the better. There is a harkening back to ancient and heritage grains that are better for bellies, taste great and are easy to grow. Join us for this Seed Chat to learn about the Fresh Flour movement and how it is taking the country by storm. Come Chat with Us!.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23nov for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

779: Harvesting and Storing Your Seeds. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:Join Bill McDorman and Greg as they discuss the five easiest seeds to Collect and store. They discuss processing methods, including how to wet process tomato seeds. It is easier than you think. Then they share how to store your seeds for long term success and what the seed mantra cool, dark and dry means. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23oct for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Learn from the experts how to save seeds for planting now and proper seed storage for future planting. Farmer Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss the 5 easiest seeds to save. We cover seed saving for more than just vegetables and grains; we also include corn and wheat. The goal is to give you the opportunity to learn about seed saving so you can harvest the many seeds produced by what you plant. We also want you to learn about The Great American Seed Up! It's a wonderful resource. Original broadcast archive page with expanded content https://rosieonthehouse.com/podcast/outdoor-living-hour-urban-farming-save-those-seeds-with-greg-peterson-and-bill-mcdorman-of-the-rocky-mountain-seed-alliance/

773: Seed Journaling. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the September 2023 Seed Chat about busting the myths around seed journaling. Join Janis Norton and Farmer Greg as they walk you through all the different ways to journal about your garden. Most importantly why it is so valuable to keep track of the myriad of things that you do in your garden and how that can lead to future successes.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23sep for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

767: Bugs, Disease, Weather, and Animals. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the August 2023 Seed Chat discussing the impact that climate change is having on our crops. With all the excitement in the world Bill proposes to get all the diversity you can into your yard, into your neighborhood, into your community. That means more different kinds of varieties of the favorite crops that you wanna grow and more different kinds of crops off the scale. The more genetic and crop diversity that we have in our communities the better.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23aug for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

759: Seed Support and Where to Find It. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the July 2023 Seed Chat discussing Seed classes, seed libraries, seed companies, books and teaching tools. We'll talk about (and link) our favorite resources whether you are starting a community seed library, launching a seed business or looking for that fabulous book you can cuddle up with to find inspiration and context for your seed saving journey. Come Chat with Us!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23july for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!You can find the pdf that Bill and Greg are refering to in this episode at https://www.seedsave.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Seed-Chat-Resources.pdfWhat is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. EDITOR'S NOTE: Correction to the date of the Seed Chats mentioned in this episode. They take place on the THIRD Tuesday of the month.Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

753: Seed Saving and Climate Change. A chat with an expert on seeds.In This Seed Chat:This is the June 2023 Seed Chat discussing Seed Saving and Climate Change. Have you noticed anything odd recently? Perhaps climate change has your community a bit up in arms. Unexpected rain, hotter high temps, lower low temps. How do we prepare for changing climatic conditions in terms of growing and saving seeds? Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson will delve into this ever-evolving topic and offer tips for riding the waves of uncertainty. Come Chat with Us!Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23june for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system.Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABecome an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

740: Companion Planting, a Seed Chat.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the April 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore what it means to companion plant, and it depends on what you want to accomplish. From a permaculture perspective, can also be called the whole systems perspective, companion planting looks at every aspect of your ecosystem. This brings into play guilds, pollinators, planting things that thrive together and avoiding things that don't like each other and building ecosystems that work together. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23apr for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!Mentioned in this episode:Worm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discountWorm Composting Class and Worm bin discount

734: Seed and Plant Selection For Challenging Gardens.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the March 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore all the magical places to grow your garden. Restricted by where you can plant your garden? How do you optimize difficult spaces to plant your favorite vegetables? We will help you navigate challenges with areas never targeted for beautiful eye-catching gardens. It is possible! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23mar for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

715: What is Happening in the World of Seeds.A Chat with an Expert on Seeds.In This Podcast:This is the December 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing what is happening in the world of seeds. Bill recently returned from the 9th Session of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in New Delhi. He shares what he learned about how the world is protecting the genetic resources of smallholder farmers in the global south who contribute so much to the diversity and genetic pool of our precious seeds. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&ABill McDorman is the co-founder of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Seedsave.org, Seed School and the Great American Seed Up. Bill has been teaching seed saving for decades and is dedicated to educating communities about the value of seed saving and local seeds as a foundation for a local food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22dec for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

705: How Do You Store Your Seeds. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing how to store your seeds. The most asked question we get in all our educational programs is “How do you store your seeds?” Our quick answer is the mantra: keep your seeds cool, dark, and dry. But there are a few other tricks of the trade to make sure that your seeds will germinate year after year and not necessarily what is indicated on your seed packet. We'll cover that as well so you can understand why seed packets have an expiration date of between 15 to 18 months.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22oct for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

701: Seed Starting Challenges. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the September 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed starting.  There is nothing more satisfying than getting a jump on the gardening season by starting seeds in flats or in the ground.  What do we need to know to be successful?  Soil composition, temperature, moisture and light all determine whether we are jumping for joy from our efforts or crying out in despair.  How many times have we started seeds only to realize we created a wonderful sprouted bounty for our feathered friends?  Get a good start to starting seeds with some simple information and ideas for success.  A little attention will go a long way in making sure you lengthen your garden season and end up with healthy vibrant plants you started from seeds!  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22sep for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

696: Cool Season and Warm Season Crops. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the August 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing cool season and warm season crops.  Do we plant cool season crops in the fall and warm season in the spring? How is it that cool season varieties get sweeter as the weather gets colder? Can warm season crops last through blistering heat? Can we strengthen the genetics of any crop through selection and adaptation? Come play with us and find out the answers to these questions and more with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson on Seed Chat.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22aug for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

691: Seed Harvesting. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the July 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed harvesting.  Before you know it, all your crops will be going to seed. Rather than deadhead and “clean everything up,” learn how to be your own best seed detective. What are the characteristics of the plants from which you should be saving seed? How do you decide when and how to harvest your seeds? What are some simple strategies that can be applied to most plants when saving for seed? What are the benefits from saving your own, locally cultivated and adapted seed? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22jul for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

687: Squashes, Summer & Winter. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the June 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing squashes.  Help! How can we tell the difference between summer and winter squashes and why is it important? What are the challenges with cross-pollination and why don't the three different species of squash cross? And what are they? What are the pitfalls of planting and planning for harvest? So many questions and so many answers can be found on Seed Chat with Greg and Bill. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman was Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22jun for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

683: Pollinators & Wildflowers. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the May 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing planting wildflowers.  A diverse and integrated garden requires many different elements. Top on that list are pollinators and wildflowers. If you have a robust flower component to your cultivated gardens, so much of the extra workload is handled by these workhorses as they attract beneficial bugs and increase harvests. Learn how to plant wildflowers and how they impact the beauty and functionality of your garden or farm and create healthy eco-systems that are balanced and regenerative. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22may for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

678: Seed Saving Myths. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the April 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed saving myths.  A myth is an idea or story that is believed by many people but that is not true, according to Webster's Dictionary. Seed saving myths are plentiful and often are motivated by large corporations to increase seed sales and profits. You can't save seeds to hybrids. You need lots of chemical inputs to grow successful seed crops. Seed saving is hard and should not be attempted by amateurs. You need a lot of space to save seeds. In this Seed Chat, Bill and guest host Janis Norton debunk these myths and others. They will help you understand the origins of these stories and how they have become part of our general narrative.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22apr for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

675: Seed Dehybridizing. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the March 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed dehybridizing.  We love hybrid vigor and what hybridized seed can offer. The only downside to using hybridized seed is you can't save it. Wait a minute. What if you found out that isn't true? That you could capture the best traits hybrid seed offers and develop seed that would reproduce like its parents, in other words, true to type? Learn the tricks of the trade to dehybridize your favorite hybrid plants and have lasting seed stock you can save! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22mar for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!  

A chat with Bill McDorman.  In This Garden Chat: Your tastiest vegetables can be grown again and again from your own garden! Future harvests are just a few steps away from what you are growing now and Bill McDorman can help you see the path to the future you want.  Explore the benefits of seed saving, learn how to take those first steps, and keep your journey on course with a free class recommendation.   On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Bill McDorman got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013.  He authored the book Basic Seed Saving in 1994, and in 2010 he and his wife, Belle Starr, created Seed School, a nationally recognized week long training.  Bill is a passionate and knowledgeable presenter who inspires his audience to learn to save their own seeds and so much more!

659: Companion Planting. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the December 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman  and special guest Kari Spencer discussing companion planting. Why work so hard in your garden? Gardening should be fun, relaxing and stress free. Unfortunately many of us don't subscribe to that philosophy. We worry, we fret and we fear we aren't doing it right. Companion planting is a way to capture nature's brilliance to help you “get it right.” There are plants that naturally love being partnered with each other in the garden. They provide many benefits such as shade for a heat sensitive specimen or maybe are themselves a kind of bug repellent for another plant. Often food from plants that taste good together have a symbiotic relationship in the garden.  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds21dec for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

655: Culinary & Aromatic Herbs. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing herbs. A garden without herbs is like ice cream without hot fudge. Herbs enhance any meal, and drinking teas made from herbs is healing and medicinal.  They can be perennial and annual allowing for many different planting opportunities, and they are usually easy to divide and reproduce. Bill and Greg explore this magical garden component. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds21nov for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

646: Loving Those Legumes. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing legumes.  Beans and peas are great to eat and also great for your soil. Incorporating them into your garden rotation is smart and delicious. Pollinators also love legumes so it's a win-win all around. Plant them along a wall or fence for a beautiful display of cascading leaves and fruit for easy picking. There is so much to love about legumes! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/lovinglegumes for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

643: Nifty Nightshades. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the September 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing nightshades.  We are so glad the deadly nightshades aren't!  Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and tomatillos.  Easy to save the seeds and so many reasons to.  And the good news is that these plants are self-pollinating so no worries about your plants “getting crossed up.”  Everyone's favorite vegetable, tomato, could become your favorite seed saving variety.  Plant, pick, save seeds.  Oh and eat the fruit.  Really!  At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/nightshades for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!

636: How to let your garden go to seed. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the August 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing brassicas.  Take the best seeds from this year's garden and save them for the next. When you adapt and save seeds from plants that were hardy, and exhibited characteristics you like (disease and insect resistance for example) those seeds will work better in your garden the following year because after all, that is where they learned their new tricks. Join us and we'll show you how to select the best seed for your best garden. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class.  Join the class! Register anytime for the next event.Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He is one of the creators of The Great American Seed Up. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/blog/podcast for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!

In celebration of The Great American Seed Up, Farmer Greg and guest Bill McDorman of The Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance talk about everything you need to know about seeds.  From vegetables to herbs, grain and corn, it all starts with seeds.  Its a lot more than just planting them in the ground.

In celebration of The Great American Seed Up, Farmer Greg and guest Bill McDorman of The Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance talk about everything you need to know about seeds.  From vegetables to herbs, grain and corn, it all starts with seeds.  Its a lot more than just planting them in the ground.

058 - Rock Mountain Seed Alliance with Guest Bill McDorman And host Linda Borghi   In this episode, I am speaking with Bill McDorman, the executive director of the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance. We discuss “The State of The Seed” and how we can all play a part in the saving of seeds.   This podcast is made possible by funding from Farm-a-Yard and Farm-a-Yards' Mighty Network. Please support our podcast and become a member seed.Farm-a-Yard.com   https://rockymountainseeds.org/ https://dd200.isrefer.com/go/SSOSP/RMS1 http://seedlibraries.weebly.com/ https://www.seedambassadors.org/docs/seedzine4handout.pdf   Links: http://farmayard.podbean.com/ - Podcast webpage https://www.facebook.com/groups/farmayard/ - Facebook Movement Community http://farm-a-yard.com - Join the Movement, get on our email list https://www.facebook.com/letsfarmyouryard/ - Our Facebook https://www.youtube.com/user/lborghi1?&ab_channel=Farm-a-Yard - Our YouTube channel https://seed.farm-a-yard.com/ - Our Mighty Network Music credit: “Insomnia” by John Sheehan.  Used with permission.