Cultivating Connection

Our Wild Seed Project Experience

At Nature Links for Lifelong Learning, we believe the best lessons come from doing—exploring, experimenting, and connecting with the world around us. In our last unit, we had the incredible opportunity to welcome educators from the Wild Seed Project, an organization dedicated to supporting native plants and pollinators, into our classroom for two hours of rich conversation, hands-on exploration, and meaningful activities.

The Wild Seed Project team guided us through an engaging presentation on why native pollinators are essential to a healthy ecosystem. Beyond the presentation, they led us in exploring native plants, pollinators, and the conditions these plants need to thrive. Students and instructors alike were inspired by their stories, their science, and the practical knowledge they shared—making complex ecological systems tangible and accessible.

Sharing seeds with instruction from The Wild Seed Project

Emily Baisden, Seed Stewardship Director, talks about the seed release from dried flowers during our winter programming with the Wild Seed Project.

Our experience was deeply interactive. Before the class, we met together to prepare our supplies, including aerated pots, soil, and sand. The Wild Seed Project generously gifted us native pollinator seeds, and step by step, we assembled our planting materials while learning why each detail matters for healthy growth.

By the end of the session, we had fully prepared native plants ready for our gardens, which we’ll plant this summer and into the fall, depending on the flower type, including varieties ranging from New England aster to wild strawberry.

Even after the session, the Wild Seed Project continues to support our learning by sending additional resources and guidance, helping us extend our exploration and understanding. This ongoing partnership is just one example of how collaboration with experts can enrich our programs, deepen learning, and inspire meaningful action.

We are deeply grateful to the Wild Seed Project for shaping such a memorable and educational experience. Their passion, knowledge, and generosity made this unit a highlight of our season, inspiring curiosity, stewardship, and an appreciation for the small yet vital creatures and plants that sustain our ecosystems.