Snow flurries might be flying, but spring is right around the corner. And that means it’s time to think about testing out your green thumb.
Whether you’re garden-curious or experienced in horticulture, you’ll find inspiration at the Urban Seed Exchange, which takes place on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wantable Cafe, 123 E. Walker St. Admission is free and open to the public.
Created in partnership between Wantable, Hundred Acre and the EZ Tiki food truck, the Urban Seed Exchange brings together local gardening experts, environmental educators, and plant enthusiasts to create a dynamic marketplace of knowledge and resources.
"This event aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering community connections and sustainable practices," said Alicen Huybers, Executive Manager of Wantable Cafe. "By hosting the Urban Seed Exchange on National Seed Swap Day, we're joining a nationwide movement to promote food security and environmental stewardship at the local level."
Attendees can participate in seed and houseplant exchanges, learn about urban gardening techniques, and connect with fellow plant enthusiasts. The event will also provide hands-on learning opportunities about composting, seasonal harvest preservation, and urban gardening techniques.
Featured vendors and activities include:
- Hundred Acre will share sustainable farming practices
- EZ Tiki will serve delicious food and host a seed sharing station
- Local Author Lori Fredrich will sign copies of "Wisconsin Field to Fork: Farm Fresh Recipes from the Dairy State,” a cookbook that pairs stories of local farmers with recipes from Wisconsin chefs.
- Chelotzin's plant experts will offer houseplants for sale and tips to keep them in tip-top shape
- MMSD will offer information about growing native plants and rain barrels
- Dedicated stations for plant swapping and repotting plants.
Note: If you choose to bring plants to exchange with others, please make sure they are healthy and free of pests.
As a passionate champion of the local dining scene, Lori has reimagined the restaurant critic's role into that of a trusted dining concierge, guiding food lovers to delightful culinary discoveries and memorable experiences.
Lori is an avid cook whose accrual of condiments and spices is rivaled only by her cookbook collection. Her passion for the culinary industry was birthed while balancing A&W root beer mugs as a teenage carhop, fed by insatiable curiosity and fueled by the people whose stories entwine with every dish. Lori is the author of two books: the "Wisconsin Field to Fork" cookbook and "Milwaukee Food". Her work has garnered journalism awards from entities including the Milwaukee Press Club. In 2024, Lori was honored with a "Top 20 Women in Hospitality to Watch" award by the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.
When she’s not eating, photographing food, writing or planning for TV and radio spots, you’ll find Lori seeking out adventures with her husband Paul, traveling, cooking, reading, learning, snuggling with her cats and looking for ways to make a difference.
