Wesley Chapel residents can grow vegetables, herbs and flowers at home for free through Pasco County Libraries' seed program, which allows library cardholders to request up to five seed packets per household each month.

The program is available throughout the county library system, including at New River Branch Library, 34043 Wesley Chapel Blvd.

The Pasco County Seed Library distributes donated seeds for vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. Available varieties change as the library receives donations and replenishes its inventory.

The seeds are repackaged into smaller envelopes with basic growing instructions. Larger varieties typically contain four to six seeds per packet, while smaller seeds are distributed in smaller quantities.

How to request free seeds

Library cardholders can request up to five seed packets per household during each calendar month. Duplicate or repeat orders within the same month will not be fulfilled.

Residents can browse available varieties and submit requests through the Seed Library website.

Patrons can also visit a participating Pasco County library branch and ask staff for help placing an order at a library kiosk.

During the ordering process, patrons select their seeds and choose a library branch for pickup. The library sends an email when the order has been prepared for transfer to the selected location.

Residents without a library card can find registration information on the Pasco County Libraries website. The seed program also provides instructions for registering for a virtual card.

The library asks participants to request only the seeds they intend to plant so supplies remain available to other households.

New River Discovery Gardens offer hands-on learning

Residents interested in learning more about gardening can visit the Discovery Gardens at New River Branch Library.

The outdoor learning space features five distinct areas: a seasonal flower garden, a Florida native plants garden, a butterfly garden, an interactive children's sensory garden and a community garden.

The library works with Pasco County Cooperative Extension and Florida Master Gardeners to provide gardening resources and educational opportunities.

Visitors can explore the gardens on self-guided tours during library operating hours.

The Discovery Gardens also offer gardening classes, seasonal plant swaps and a monthly Garden Club. Previous classes have covered raised garden beds, backyard fruit production, edible landscapes and Florida-friendly yard care.

Residents interested in growing plants in the community garden can ask library staff about reserving a planting bed. A signed liability waiver is required before using the beds.

Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.

Upcoming classes and activities are listed on the library's online events calendar.

New River Library hours and location

New River Branch Library is located at 34043 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

The library's regular hours are:

  • Monday and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday: Closed.

For information about seed availability, Discovery Gardens activities or library services, call 813-788-6375 or visit the New River Branch Library website.