Seeding Change with Perennials - with Martin Crawford

If you are already a Permaculture Association Member, head to the Community Hub Campfire Space to book your free ticket

When we think about seeds and seed saving, our minds tend to turn to annual crops.

But perennials (a plant that lives for three growing seasons or more, including trees) have lots of benefits that make them a perfect choice for our gardens, allotments and other growing spaces.

Perennial systems are inherently no-dig, and a key component of forest gardens. The plants themselves tend to have deeper, more extensive roots and longer growing seasons than annuals; intercept more rainfall; and access water and nutrients from deeper in the soil. Meaning less soil erosion and improved soil fertility! They help create and maintain below ground soil webs - encouraging good bacteria, funghi and other soil life.

As if you needed any more reasons to love perennials, they are often less effort and lower cost than growing annuals every year. AND they can contribute to climate resilience and food security.

There are lots of ways to propagate perennials, which is why perennial seed is often less talked about. But, despite being slightly under the radar, it is a fascinating and niche topic which we definitely want to raise more awareness of!

So, join us for this campfire, where Martin Crawford, the founder of the Agroforestry Research Trust, will share his experience of producing seed for perennial crops and you will have the opportunity to ask all your burning perennial questions.