Los Alamos County gardeners come together once per year for our Seed Library's Garden Panel. This year's experts will share tips and advice on gardening in small spaces. Whether you have pots in your yard, on your balcony, or filling your window sill, this is the place to ask your questions of seasoned experts. Their advice will inspire you to get the most out of your green thumbs.

In preparation for this event, one of our expert panelists share her expreience and advice:

Small Space Gardening, by KokHeong McNaughton

Since the Grand Opening of the Los Alamos Seed Libraries in both the White Rock Branch and Mesa Public Library two years ago in March 2023, we’ve been taking every opportunity to increase public awareness of their existence.

One question we ask library patrons is “Have you checked out seeds from our seed libraries?” We sometimes get the answer, “What seed libraries?”

But when the answer is “No”, we would follow up with “Why not?”

Some of the answers are not surprising: Living in apartments with no gardening spaces; HOA doesn’t allow plants on the balcony; Travelling too often and cannot be around to take care of plant; Too busy with work; Not interested.

The psychological benefits of caring for plants (even just a single one) are well known. Children growing up caring for plants (and animals) have reduced stress, increased sense of responsibility, improved self-esteem, connection to nature, enhanced creativity, development of patience, and a greater understanding of the life cycle, all contributing to improved emotional well-being. By nurturing plants (and animals), children learn to care for living things, fostering empathy and a sense of accomplishment as they witness their growth.

I remember walking into a brand new, very sterile store in town one day, and the first thing I noticed was there weren’t any houseplants! I remarked to the manager that a couple of houseplants strategically placed would improve the moods of his employees and customers, resulting in smoother transections. It’s all about FengShui, the ancient Chinese practice of harmonizing the Qis (life forces) around us.

The Seed Library Steering Committee will be presenting a “Gardening in Small Space” panel discussion on Saturday, February 15th from 11 am to 12:30 pm in the upper rotunda of Mesa Public Library. Panelists include experienced local gardeners and professionals who have mastered the art of gardening in small places like container gardening, grow bags, window boxes, kitchen counter herbs, indoor plants, and ways to care for plants in your absence.

The program is free and open to the public. Please come with your questions and check out the available library resources on the subject.