Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds has long been a resource for heirloom and rare seeds. They have a very comprehensive online shop, but in 2009 they decided to open a storefront in the building of an old bank in downtown Petaluma. It is one of the most beautiful and inspiring shops I have ever visited.

Filled with more than 1000 varieties of fruit and vegetable seeds, the place is in some ways more like a library than a bank. They even had a great selection of potatoes, because potatoes are seeds too! Beyond heirlooms, the bank also stocks extensive books and resources, as well as local preserves and quality tools.

The seed bank really promotes an organic growing community. The extremely helpful staff is very willing to counsel gardeners with their extensive choices. And they dedicated a space with tons of information on local gardening groups and services. I was also thrilled to see how well they have branded themselves, and preserved and enhanced the beauty of the historic building. I’ll be making a habit of visiting every season from now on!