Appalachian Heritage Annual Seed Swap

April 1, 2023

The 11^th Appalachian Heritage Annual Seed Swap was held on April 1, 2023 at Pike Central High School.  There were participants from 7 states and all over Kentucky.

In spite of the being a Severe Weather Watch day, there were over 300 participants.  Vendors said “this was the most profitable year ever”.  Several were quoted as saying they were “Thankful for the seed swap.   They were afraid many of the heirloom varieties for eastern Kentucky were lost due to the historic flooding of 2022”.

Guest speakers covered topics including—“Planting by the Signs” by Sarah Hall (who was present to sign her current book), “Seed Sterilization” by Rhonella Chaffins, and “Seed Saving 101” by Lisa Bloodnick.

Project started with the traditional “Cutting of the Cushaw” a local rare white Cushaw from Johns Creek.  Cushaw was cut by Chris Hubbard (a longtime supporter of the seed swap).  

Interested individuals surveyed the many vendors and their seed and plant collections.  Local Pikeville Farmers Market participants were on hand to sell many of the local varieties.