In Pictures: Seed library shares ‘heritage, open-pollinated Irish-provenance seed’

An innovative project is helping to preserve and increase the seed stock of Ireland’s heritage plants for future generations. Click on the arrows to see Siobhan McGowan's photos of the launch event in Pettigo:

The Seed Library at The Rock, Ballymacavany, provides a vibrant collection of heritage seeds, including vegetables, flowers, and herbs, that members of the community can plant, grow, and share. The launch took place at the Termon Complex on Saturday, January 31.

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The Rock Ballymacavany was started on the return of Pettigo native Gavin, along with his partner Helena, whose roots are Croatian, to Ballymacavany in 2012 after living abroad. 

Helena told Donegal Live: “The place was slowly and carefully developed and built upon year after year, until in August 2025 we officially started our business as a seed nursery and apothecary.

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“After assessing and engaging with people in the local communities, we recognised the need to make seed readily available for inter-generational community gardens, gardeners, and growers. Through this initiative, we are supporting people to grow heritage, open-pollinated Irish-provenance seed into vibrant crops to harvest and cherish later on.

“We organise seed and plant swaps a few times each year, with a harvest celebration in autumn to mark our communal growing experience and success. These gatherings are shared through potluck dinners, stories, and connection that spread across generations, counties, and borders.”