As spring approaches and people prepare their gardens, Masilime Ngqo, our seedling nursery, is buzzing. The demand is high and a challenge to keep up with – a good problem to have!
Our rural location means we are far from grocery stores, significantly limiting our access to fresh, nutritious foods. But in our communities, families typically own large plots of very fertile land that is used for subsistence farming.
In the past, getting seedlings was tough. Without local nurseries, people had to travel long distances to buy them. But now, farmers can buy seedlings in our community year-round from Masilime Ngqo.
At Masilime Ngqo, we sell a range of seasonal vegetable seedlings – from spinach and beetroot to carrot, pepper, cabbage, lettuce, onion, and tomato. We give away new types of vegetables like eggplant, pepperdew, and cauliflower as freebies to our customers with the hope that they will return to buy more if they like them. Our nursery also has its own garden where we sell produce and use it to teach community members about new crops and sustainable farming practices.
By providing accessible seedlings, we’re bridging a gap that once made farming an even bigger challenge than it already is. Masilime Ngqo is more than just a nursery; it’s a solution. Our community can practice sustainable farming, developing self-sufficiency and ensuring more nutritious meals for everyone.
Do you want to start a seedling nursery in your community? Check out our toolkit to learn more.
