The Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (RSWCD) has reopened its popular Seed Sanctuary just in time for the fall planting season. County residents can now pick up to four free packets of vegetable, herb, and wildflower seeds to grow at home. Seeds are available at the following locations:
- Richland County Administration Building (2020 Hampton St., Columbia)
- Richland Library Eastover (608 Main St., Eastover)
- Or by mail through a Google form: Seed Request Form, while supplies last.
In addition, Pop-Up Seed Sanctuary events will be held at community gatherings throughout the fall, providing another opportunity to obtain seeds. To request a Pop-Up event, organizers can email Chelsea Holliday, RSWCD’s administrative assistant for outreach and community engagement, at holliday.chelsea@richlandcountysc.gov. Pop-Up appearances are limited and handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Originally launched in spring 2020, the Seed Sanctuary aims to promote home gardening, food security, and pollinator conservation. During the program’s warm season earlier this year, RSWCD distributed more than 10,585 seed packets.
“We look forward to giving away more seeds and impacting more individuals during the cooler months,” Holliday said. For a list of available seed varieties and recommended planting dates, visit www.richlandcountysc.gov/seedsanctuary.
The program’s success is largely attributed to community volunteers who package the seeds for distribution, with support from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation and Friends of RSWCD. Richland County also assists with staff and resources to help RSWCD carry out its mission.
To learn more about the Seed Sanctuary and other RSWCD programs, visit www.richlandcountysc.gov/rswcd.
Photo: Pop-Up Seed Sanctuary events, held at community events throughout the fall, give Richland County residents an in-person opportunity to obtain free seeds to grow at home.
