How can hobby gardeners contribute to Sweden's preparedness? That was the starting point when Sävsjöbygdens garden association carried out the project Future in Every Seed with micro-support. Rusta Bygden money. The result was a well-attended, appreciated lecture on preparedness gardening and a clear proof that the issue is timely.
In February, participants gathered at the library in Sävsjö to listen to the speaker Johanna Hjärtfors, who talked about preparedness gardening and the role hobby gardeners can play in a crisis or war. The interest was great from the start, and after just two days, half of the spots were booked. A total of 51 people participated. Project manager Cecilia Alfheim describes why the topic felt so urgent:
– There is a lot in the news about the need to increase our preparedness. When you also enjoy gardening, it feels even better to learn in time how to grow your own food so you are prepared if something happens.
From idea to applying for micro-support
The project began with a growing interest in preparedness and gardening. The idea was sparked after Cecilia saw how other associations had worked with similar issues:
– Another garden association in Värnamo had organized a lecture on preparedness gardening and they indicated that they had received support from Leader.
With the help of Rusta Bygden money the lecture could be conducted free of charge for the participants. Cecilia believes this primarily lowered the threshold and was the reason so many attended. Coffee was also provided, and participants took home seeds as encouragement to start their gardening.
– It was very easy to both apply for and report the micro-support, and if we get the chance, we would gladly do it again, says Cecilia.
Photo: Johanna Hjärtfors lectures on preparedness gardening at Sävsjö library.
Full house for strengthened preparedness
The evening was exactly as successful as the association had hoped. That it was fully booked was a good sign, but they also received a lot of positive feedback afterward:
– After the lecture, many came up and said how good and thought-provoking it had been, Cecilia recounts.
The lecture also provided new perspectives, even for those who were already engaged. One tip that Cecilia took with her was that you must ensure to have your own stock of seeds in addition to fertilizer, water, and good soil.
The association looks ahead
The garden association is now looking forward to building on the engagement, among other things through a gardening flea market where seeds and plants can be shared. They want the lecture to be a step for everyone to think more and grow more sustainable food.
– Not just growing tomatoes and cucumbers as many of us hobby gardeners do. I myself will try my hand at squash, onions, pumpkins, and cabbage this year, Cecilia concludes.
Photo: Members of the garden association at the Christmas market 2025.
About Sävsjöbygdens Garden Association
Behind the initiative is a volunteer-driven garden association with strong local roots. The association gathers people with a common interest in gardening and horticulture and serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, inspiration, and joint activities in the community.
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Published: June 9, 2026