A much-anticipated annual event, the Vashon Seed Share, brought seeds and smiles to islanders at Dig Deep Gardens on Sunday.

The seed share was originally conceived over 15 years ago by Lotus, a gardener and community leader who believed that sharing seeds could spread love, food and flowers throughout the community.

Since Lotus died in 2021, her many friends in Vashon’s thriving community of growers have continued to hold the Seed Share in her honor. This year, Karen Biondo, of La Biondo Farm & Kitchen, and Merilee Runyon, a longtime island organic grower, organized the event.

As always, the Seed Share attracted a joyous crowd, sharing not only seeds but also hugs, stories, and plans for their gardens in the coming year.

Messages of optimism and joy adorned the walls of the greenhouse at Dig Deep Gardens. (Jamie Wolf photo)

A table at the Seed Share honored the event’s beloved founder, Lotus. (Jamie Wolf photo)