A SUCCESSFUL seed swap is returning to Buckfast Abbey next month.

The Great Seed Giveaway will be hoping to repeat the brisk trade enjoyed at last year’s inaugural exchange.

Gardeners are being invited to turn up at the historic venue on February 25, to hand over their offerings for seeds collected from the green acres around the abbey.

Punters are asked to bring a seed-filled labelled envelope in exchange for the home-produced varieties. Both the event and the seed give-away are free. All that is asked is that those unable to provide their own seeds make a small donation instead.

Organisers say the occasion gives local gardeners a chance to enjoy and grow some of the plants that recently helped the Abbey win the Gold Award at The Royal Horticultural Society and South West in Bloom’s Britain in Bloom Awards.

From healthy vegetable crops to vibrant flowers, the seeds collected from the lawned and wild gardens - as well as the monastic Lavender, Sensory and Physic Gardens - all help to preserve the county’s biodiversity.

Seeds gathered from the local environment are well adapted to the growing conditions in Devon, which means healthier crops and flowers.

The event will help maintain Devon’s biodiversity and conserve its natural seed varieties, whilst also being a great opportunity for the county’s gardeners to swap tips and speak to the Abbey’s team of professional gardeners.

Aaron Southgate, Head Gardener at Buckfast Abbey, said: ‘We’re delighted to be hosting our second annual Great Seed Giveaway. Our first seed swap was a massive success last year - and it was fantastic to see so many enthusiastic local gardeners keen to take part.

‘The gardens at Buckfast Abbey produce an abundance of seeds, and we couldn’t think of a better way to share our splendid plants with the local community.’

He added: ‘Our fantastic team here at the abbey help ensure our gardens remain vibrant year-round, and we will of course welcome any questions and provide advice on how to make the most of our plants.

‘By exchanging seeds across the local region, rather than purchasing them from national suppliers, we can help maintain the biodiversity that makes Devon such a beautiful place to live.’

Business will be transacted between 10am and 3pm in The Grange Restaurant. Entry and parking are free.