The Great American Seed Up, a pop-up bulk seed buying event, is gearing up for its ninth annual event in Phoenix this month.

Residents get the opportunity to check out a diverse range of seeds to foster a connection with gardening and the planting process. However, the Seed Up's ultimate mission is to encourage seed-saving practices, leading to stronger crops, enhanced pest resistance, and more flavorful produce, according to a press release.

Ultimately, this event is about strengthening our local food system, says cofounder Greg Peterson.

The Seed-Up takes place at North Phoenix Baptist Church, 5757 N. Central Ave., in Phoenix, on the evening of Friday, Oct. 27, and during the day on Saturday, Oct. 28.

Schedule:

• Friday, Oct. 27: Doors open at 4 p.m. for those pre-registered for seed purchasing and will close at 7:30 p.m. Walk-ins accepted after 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 28: Doors open at 11 a.m. for those pre-registered and close at 3:30 p.m. Walk-in registrations accepted after 1 p.m.

Pre-registered attendees for either day will gain online access to recorded seed-related classes and an array of presentations focused on the art and techniques of seed-saving.

"The key to combating our increasingly unpredictable climate lies in saving seeds that are adaptable to your local conditions. Seed saving is an important answer to our agricultural challenges,” Bill McDorman, Great American Seed Up and Seed School co-founder, and a seasoned seed saver and educator, shared in a press release. “The Seed Up event is a wonderful opportunity to acquire desert-hardy seeds and embark on your own seed-saving journey."

The event showcases a seed bazaar stocked with generous quantities of open-pollinated, non-GMO vegetable, wildflower, flower, grain, and herb seed varieties at significantly discounted prices. It caters to all levels of seed enthusiasts, from market farmers to home gardeners.

All available seed varieties have been carefully chosen for their adaptability to hot, dry desert climates. Many of these seeds originate from the same sources as top seed companies but are offered at a fraction of the cost.

Those unable to attend in person can check out an online bulk seed purchasing platform at GreatAmericanSeedUp.org.

Cost is $7.50 per day, which grants entry to the Seed Room for purchasing, as well as access to online educational resources and live internet presentations.

Early registration is open at GreatAmericanSeedUp.org.

The event is presented by Seedsave.org, The Urban Farm, and Two Peace in a Pod.