A practical workshop introducing the participants to the joy of saving seeds from local wild plants, helping to support the regeneration of our precious indigenous flora species, providing suitable floral resources for wild pollinator species and helping to protect Ireland’s indigenous genetic diversity.
The workshop will be based on recommended best practice for saving seeds from the wild. We will look at the Flora Protection Order, 2015 and the conservation status of wild plants. The participants will be introduced to a simple wild seed saving protocol that protects both the plants and their habitats.
We will explore why it is important to save local indigenous wild seed for conservation, for community ecology and habitat regeneration projects. We will also explore why we need to stop introducing non- native wild flower seed mixes into wild habitats, ecosystems and private gardens.
Practical sessions will include: identification of native wild plants; saving seeds from common wild herbaceous plants; identifying when seeds are ripe for harvesting; best practice for collecting, processing, storing and sowing seed; and what is needed for a basic seed saving toolkit.
This workshop will be facilitated by ecologist Áine Ni Fhlatharta, MSc. and hosted by the team of Lough Grainey Nature Sanctuary.
This is a free public workshop.
Supported by the Heritage Council under the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2024.
Places are limited, please book early.
This event will include an indoor presentation and an outdoor field trip.
Please check the weather forecast and wear appropriate clothing.

Address
Flagmount Community Hall, followed by a field trip, Co. Clare