Tree · Aguda, Figueiró dos Vinhos, Leiria, Portugal
Colher Para Semear
Portugal's member-run seed network · grow it, save it, give part back
Since 2004Works nationally
- seed-exchange
- seed-saving
- heirloom-varieties
- workshops
Colher Para Semear is a volunteer association that collects, multiplies and catalogues traditional Portuguese vegetable varieties. 'Seed guardian' members take on a variety, grow it out and return part of the harvest to the shared bank. It runs seed-keeper workshops, seed exchanges and tomato tastings for members and the public.
Founded in 2004 and based in Figueiró dos Vinhos, the association reported more than 500 members in 2014. Its aims are to train farmers to save and exchange their own seed, to promote open-pollinated traditional varieties in organic growing, and to reduce dependence on hybrid and GM seed. Workshops are free for members and €5 for others.
What they need
Can you help? We'll take it to them.
- New seed guardian members
- Volunteers
What they offer
Ask us to connect you.
- Traditional seed varieties to members
- Seed-keeper workshops
- Seed exchanges