152 Facilitator’s Handbook for Permaculture Workshops
Field activity : Test and document seed viability
Method : Groups practical exercise
Tools : See preparation below
References : PC Book MOD 5 – Seed Saving and Nurseries
Objective : Participants practice creating a seed list and testing seed viability
Preparation
The facilitator will need to collect or prepare:
- 3 different varieties of seed with at least 50 seeds for each variety.
- A planting tray for each variety of seed with good quality planting soil.
- Identification cards or signs for each variety of seed.
- Photocopies of the ‘Community seed saving group’ section from PC Book MOD 5
- Seed Saving and Nurseries for each participant.
- Pens and paper.
Running this exercise
Divide the participants into 3 groups.
Step 1
Create the seed and planting material list - Follow Step 8 in the “Community seed
saving group” section of PC Book MOD 5 – Seed Saving and Nurseries. Each group
can create a table as shown in the PC Book and complete it using examples of the seeds
that the facilitator has provided. Extra examples of local varieties of vegetable or fruit can
be added if time permits.
Step 2
Start a seed viability rate test - Supply each group with 1 variety of seed, a planting
tray, potting soil, identification card, pens, and paper. Follow step 9 in the “Community
seed saving group” section of PC Book MOD 5 – Seed Saving and Nurseries. Use
Method 2 – Seed testing for selling and trading seed. The participants will be able to start
this experiment and the seeds will probably start germinating at the end of the workshop.
Through group consensus, 3 participants, or representatives from the participants’
communities, could take the seed trays home to complete the rest of the seed test
after the workshop ends. Results can be sent back to the facilitator for review and the
participants will be able to plant the seedlings afterward.
Step 3
Feedback - The groups can join together to discuss the lists and preliminary results of
the seed test.
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