Want to know where to find free seeds?
Perhaps you’re creating a vegetable or flower garden.
Maybe you’re thinking about planting a tree.
Or you just want a tasty snack.
Whatever your objective, I offer places that provide seeds at no cost to you.
By the way, did you know that the seeds of the Burdock plant inspired a handy invention called Velcro?
The Burdock plant has cockleburs, which have hooks that caught onto George de Mestral and his dog during a hunting trip in Switzerland in 1941.
After taking the seeds home to study them, de Mestral realized they had a practical use and decided to create a clothing fastener.
Velcro was patented in 1948 and is still used for coats, shoes, and other clothing.
Who knows?
You might come up with a nifty invention with the seeds you collect.
Or just plant your seeds in the dirt and enjoy whatever grows!
But let’s hold off on invention ideas for now and get to the leads below.
Table of Contents
How to Get Free Seeds Near Me
Here are ways you can get seeds free of charge.
1. Seed library
Seed libraries let people get a limited number of seed packets for free.
They’re similar to book libraries except you don’t have to return them. (Besides, returning used seeds wouldn’t make any sense.)
Search for your nearest seed library by entering “seed libraries near me” and contact it to inquire about its policies.
Alternatively you can use this site for a handy map of over 500 seed lending libraries worldwide and their contact information!
2. Free Heirloom Seeds
Free Heirloom Seeds distributes free seed packs to U.S. and international patrons.
There are three ways to request seeds. (Go here if you live outside the U.S.):
- In-person – If you live in Arcata, California, go to this address to pick them up: Stone Spirits 865#B – 8th Street Arcata, CA 95521
- Online – Put “Seed Request” into the subject line; include your email and name in the first line, enter your name and address in the next three lines, and then type the seed selection codes in the last line(s). (Your message should resemble this sample.)
- Mail – Send your seed request to the mailing address mentioned in the first bullet point.
(Note: Monetary donations are highly recommended, though they’re required for email requests unless you put “no donation” into the subject line.)
3. I Heart Seeds
I Heart Seeds gives seeds to low-income households, seed libraries, and schools all over the United States free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Send your request via email to outreach@iheartseeds.com or snail mail to I Heart Seeds P.O. Box Hastings, PA 16646.
4. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)/National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS)
Researcher or professional plant breeder?
Visit the USDA free seeds website to place an order.
(It’s not open to K-12 schools or the general public.)
5. Craigslist
When it comes to finding free stuff, Craigslist is always worth a shot!
Craigslist has stuff — especially seeds — for free, as well as for sale.
Find the “For Sale” section in your local Craigslist, click “free,” and browse for anyone giving away seeds.
6. Save Our Monarchs-Pollinator Garden Program
The Save Our Monarchs Pollinator Garden Program gives free seeds to K-12 schools to encourage kids to conserve butterfly populations.
If you’re a teacher interested in the program, order online through the above link or by mail in a self-addressed stamped envelope to the following address with $1.00 to cover shipping and handling:
Pollinator Garden Program
Save Our Monarchs Foundation
P.O. Box 390135
Minneapolis, MN 55439
7. Seed Swap
A seed swap is where people can gather at a private residence, a community room, or elsewhere to exchange seeds.
If there isn’t a seed swap in your community, consider starting one.
8. Neighborhood
If you’ve asked yourself, “Where can I get free seeds near me,” you might find some in your neighborhood.
Ask your neighbor(s) for a cup or two or stroll down the block for produce others might be giving away, which leads to the last point.
9. Fruits and Vegetables
Cut open a tomato, pumpkin, or other produce and scoop out the seeds.
Save Money by Getting Seeds for Nothing
Seeds are great for creating food gardens, attracting wildlife, and even new inventions.
Regardless of your goals, it’s awesome that you can use this list to get free seeds for your needs.
