Program offers seeds for gardening to residents

New Mexican residents can plant seeds and grow a vegetable garden while staying home and social distancing, thanks to New Mexico State University’s Seed to Supper program.

Part of NMSU’s Cooperative Extension Service, Seed to Supper provides free seeds and gardening guidance to New Mexicans who register for the online course or who participate offline with a paper-based booklet on introductory gardening techniques.

Seed to Supper is federally funded by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and was created by NMSU’s Ideas for Cooking and Nutrition program.

New Mexico Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte said it is a good opportunity for families during the spring planting.

“This program aims to support physical distancing and bolster New Mexicans’ access to healthy food during the COVID-19 health emergency,” Witte said. “It’s also an excellent educational opportunity for families to learn about agriculture in our state.”

Those who wish to participate in the free program can call (877) 993-3637 during business hours to speak with someone or leave a message. Participants will receive:

• Four packets of vegetable seeds appropriate to their region of New Mexico. Options may include leafy greens, melons, root vegetables and squash.

• A “quick tips” guide on how to start a vegetable garden at home (including guidance for families whose housing arrangements require container gardening).

The majority of the program’s support comes from federal SNAP funds. For those who wish to participate but are not eligible to participate in SNAP, NMSU’s Cooperative Extension Service will provide booklets. The Quay County office may be contacted at 575-461-0562 or [email protected].