Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

The Great American Seed Up is once again setting up shop in Phoenix. After three very successful showings in previous years, the “pop-up” seed market will be returning to the Uptown Farmers Market at North Phoenix Baptist Church, 5757 N. Central Ave. 

This year the Seed Up will span two days beginning with the signature event “Seed Dating” where you bring a friend for free plus includes a viewing of the thought-provoking documentary, “Seed: the Untold Story”. The movie will begin Friday, Sept. 22, at 6:30 p.m. A Q-and-A session will follow with seed expert Bill McDorman, who is featured in the film. People can also scoop and purchase seeds from 5 to 9 p.m. that night.

On Saturday, Sept. 23, the event is open for seed scooping from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Saturday is education day featuring three classes on seed saving, storage that will take place throughout the day at 11 a.m., 12 and 1 p.m.

The event will feature a seed bazaar overflowing with bulk quantities of popular open-pollinated, non-gmo vegetable, wildflower, flower and herb seed varieties available at deep discounts. This event is a boon for all seed growers and lovers, from professional Community Supported Agriculture farmers to home gardeners. Families, community groups and interested individuals are welcome to shop for seeds and take in seed knowledge firsthand from expert presenters. 

All varieties for sale will be specially chosen for their ability to thrive in hot, dry desert climates. Many are the same varieties sourced by the top seed companies but available at the “Seed Up” at a quarter of the cost (or more).

On Saturday, workshops and presentations with seed experts will educate and inspire attendees with practical knowledge about the techniques and benefits of seed saving. Scheduled presenters include Bill McDorman (Seedsave.org, Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance), and Kari Spencer (The Micro Farm Project). Discussion topics will include; how to save seeds, planting and starting seeds and how to properly store your new seeds.

Tickets are $7.50 per day and do not include the cost of purchasing seeds. Advance registration is required online at GreatAmericanSeedUp.org. The Great American Seed Up is presented by Seedsave.org in collaboration with Urban Farm University, the Micro Farm Project and Grow Phx.