​Fund-raiser grows hope for youth programs at Bruce Botanical Food Gardens in Ripley

As spring approaches, staff at the Bruce Botanical Food Gardens in Ripley has launched a meaningful and delicious event rooted in history, education, and community connection: the Sultan’s Crescent Green Pole Bean seed fund-raiser.

This special heirloom bean is more than just a garden staple; it carries a story of resilience, preservation, and purpose. It carries a story that connects global food conversations with hands-on local action.

In 2012, the food gardens were one of the only 50 sites across Canada to host a live-feed discussion following a presentation by the United Nations special rapporteur on the right to food. That moment helped shape the gardens' early focus on food sovereignty, seed-saving, and education.

Not long after, during the International Year of the Bean, the gardens took on a remarkable challenge: growing and preserving the Sultan’s Crescent Green Pole Bean (right), a variety that was nearly lost.

At the time, only one known specimen plant remained. From that single plant, volunteers successfully grew and harvested thousands of beans, helping bring the variety back from the brink of extinction. Seeds were sent to Canada’s national seed vault, while others were carefully saved, packaged, and preserved at the garden itself.

The Sultan's Crescent bean nearly disappeared from gardens, not because of flavour or quality, but simply because of its shape. Its natural crescent curve made it difficult for large producers to sort and package, unlike the straight beans that fit easily into commercial systems. As a result, this unique variety was pushed aside despite being an exceptional food crop.

By purchasing Sultan’s Crescent bean seeds, community members will help support the ongoing work of the food gardens, including seed preservation, educational initiatives, and future programming.

Seed packages are priced at $3.75 and include 25 seeds. Seeds will be available:
 

• At the Commonplace Market in Kincardine
• By pre-arranged pick-up at the food gardens with Oliva Haufe
• At the food gardens annual plant sale

This fund-raiser is about more than growing beans - it’s about protecting bio-diversity, honouring food history, and continuing the legacy of community-based growing at the gardens.

Those interested in the gardens' future initiatives are encouraged to stay tuned for an exciting announcement regarding youth programming later this year.

For now, the Sultan Crescent bean offers a simple and meaningful way to plant a piece of history. Thank you for helping the food gardens protect the past, nurture the present, and grow hope for the future!

-- photos by Aprille Fox