The fourth-annual Group Seed Order will take place at St. John’s Episcopal Church on Jackson Street in Sylva on Saturday, Jan. 14, between 9 a.m. and noon.

The Jackson County Farmers Market sponsors this seed-ordering event. The volume from collectively ordering as a group helps reduce costs.

Seeds will be ordered from Fedco Seeds and Johnny’s Selected Seeds, two of the leading seed companies specializing in vegetables that have been chosen for taste. Flower, herb and cover crop seeds, as well as onion transplants and sweet potato slips can be ordered.

Catalogs for Fedco and Johnny’s Seeds with descriptions and prices will be on hand at the ordering event. Catalogs are also available on-line at www.fedcoseeds.com and www.johnnyseeds.com.

Each order needs to be submitted on an order form and be paid for by cash or check on Jan. 14. The seeds will arrive in about three weeks. Those who placed an order will be notified about the date and time to pick up their orders.

“By ordering as a group we can qualified for a 24 percent discount with Fedco and save a lot by ordering in larger quantities,” said Ron Arps, an organizer for the event. “We can also get varieties that are not available locally.”

People who want to start a new garden this year are encouraged to place an order. Many experienced gardeners will be there to give help and advice.

828.586.5478.