BARNEGAT – Two local initiatives are cultivating a greener community as interest in gardening continues to blossom throughout the township. The annual Seed Swap and the thriving Barnegat Community Garden provide residents of all ages with the essential tools, diverse seeds, and the spark of inspiration needed to get their hands dirty and nurture their food sources.
Seed Swap Supported
Now in its third year, the Barnegat Seed Swap has blossomed into a much-anticipated community event beyond exchanging old seed packets. Held at Barnegat High School and organized by science teacher Mario Cunha, the event drew gardeners young and old, eager to learn, share, and grow.
Cunha brings a wealth of biological expertise to the school district, teaching a range of subjects and currently focusing on environmental science. His passion for the natural world extends beyond the school walls. For the past decade, he has also been a fixture at Insectropolis, an interactive bug museum in nearby Toms River.
“At Insectropolis, we did a seed swap for two years,” said Cunha. “It made me think this would be an awesome event to bring to the community by hosting it at the high school.”
Barnegat High School teacher Mario Cunha said the Seed Swap has seen tremendous input from students and community members interested in gardening. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
The swap invited participants to bring unused seed packets from home – maybe a variety that didn’t thrive in last year’s soil or one that just didn’t excite the gardener. In return, they could choose from an array of seeds brought by others or purchase packets for just $2 each.
Cunha also passed on some interesting tips that novice gardeners might not realize. For one, he explained that expiration dates on seed packets aren’t necessarily accurate – and may actually be “bogus” according to the local expert.
“I’m not saying they don’t run out,” Cunha elaborated. “But to put it in perspective – two years ago, I germinated cucumbers that were labeled from 2004.” He advised gardeners not to throw out older seeds just yet, as many are still viable. That said, some seeds, like those from onions and other alliums, do have shorter lifespans and may need replacing more often.
Alana O’Neal and Malaysia Francis talked about their projects with others. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
But the seed swap wasn’t just about exchanging plants or seeds – it included some full-on garden education. This year’s swap featured demonstrations in juicing, hydroponics, and making sauerkraut. Cunha’s goal is to show the practical side of growing your own food and the therapeutic value of horticulture.
“There’s something really powerful about putting a seed in soil and watching it grow,” he said. “It’s good for your body and your mind.”
Students from various grade levels took the opportunity to become involved. Sophomore Malaysia Francis has even been making ceramic pots in art class to house her future plants. “I want to grow tomatoes,” she said, “because I’ve seen so many great recipes with them.” Her classmate Alana O’Neal has her eye on ultimately feasting on some delicious watermelons.
Photo courtesy Merna Bakhit
Senior Hailey Hub, who plans to enlist in the Army, sees the event as a way to connect and give back. “It’s a great opportunity to help people who are just starting out. We’re teaching them about juicing, what veggies are good for skin rejuvenation or hydration – it’s fun and educational.”
And for sisters Merna and Remoda Bakhit, gardening has become an exciting part of their lives. Merna, 19, is a health sciences major at Stockton University and came back to participate in the seed swap with her sister, who is 17 and a Barnegat High School senior. Their flowers were already starting to bloom as spring began.
The benefits of gardening for students are widely recognized. According to the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, school gardens offer an “exciting way to make almost any classroom curriculum come alive.” These living laboratories provide hands-on learning experiences that cultivate academic understanding and crucial life skills such as responsibility and teamwork. Research suggests that engaging with gardens can lead to improved learning outcomes, enhanced test scores, and a greater appreciation for nature, healthy eating, and environmental stewardship.
Kurt Stofko, leader of the Barnegat Community Gardens discusses the benefits of sharing space with other gardeners. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
Garden Gathers Growers
For those eager to garden but short on space, the Barnegat Community Garden is the perfect place to sow new roots. Located at Meadow Edge Park, the garden provides raised beds and water access, all while cultivating a true sense of community.
Now entering its fourth growing season, the garden has blossomed into more than a hobby. Under the leadership of Kurt Stofko, the garden has donated over 2,100 pounds of fresh produce to local food pantries. “We’ve officially grown and given away more than a ton of food,” said Stofko.
Beds are assigned to community members – 19 individuals and one organization last year – each with a 4-foot by 8-foot space to plant fruits, vegetables, or herbs. Gardeners bring their own tools, although wheelbarrows and hoses are available. Compost, rain barrels, and deer fencing help ensure healthy yields. There is also a “Three Sisters” garden where corn, beans and squash are planted together – replicating Native American cultural traditions.
Senior Hailey Hub said the Seed Swap is a good way to meet others and learn from them. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
The garden isn’t just about produce. It’s also a place for education and enrichment. In collaboration with the Barnegat Public Library, the garden hosted eight “Reading in the Garden” events last year, where children listened to stories, sifted dirt, and planted seeds to take home. Cooking demonstrations, run in partnership with Barnegat Communities that Care, taught families how to turn fresh ingredients into healthy meals.
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