Plant Swap: Encouraging Community
My nephew, Jeff, invited my sister, Deb, and me to his neighborhood plant swap. He lives in Hamtramck on the edge of Detroit. Jeff bought a house there several years ago. Many homes have been razed, so there are many open lots. A couple of years ago, Jeff started planting lavender on two of the empty lots. He has flowers from my yard (that I took for my parents’ yard) that are now a part of his yard. Over time, Jeff has bought empty lots and planted more flowers.
The Plant Swap
Jeff decided to try a neighborhood plant swap. He invited us, friends, and his neighborhood. Deb and I said we were going to a plant dump. LOL We have too many flowers so this was a chance to share the wealth. I said emphatically, that I would not be bringing any plants home… buuuuut, I did. Jeff’s neighbors and friends were awesome. They were super knowledgeable about their plants: the names, the benefits, everything.
I brought home a small raspberry bush, ranunculus, and indigo pods. I somehow lost my garlic which bums me out. It was FRESH garlic. Many of Jeff’s friends had herb or cut flower gardens. I loved finding out about the plants. I also loved that neighbors stopped by and asked what was going on. We told them that it was a plant swap, but we had plenty, so take whatever you like. “How much for this plant?” Nothing. It’s all free, just please promise to take good care of them.
One neighbor stopped by with her grandson. She picked out plants and put them in a basket that he carried for her. He didn’t look as happy about the whole thing since he was the one who would have to plant them, but he came and helped his grandma which was really awesome.
The Results
My sister, Deb, and I had a great time and we loved being a part of an event that had such a sense of community. My nephew, Jeff, is exceptionally good at bringing people together in the most unexpected ways. Something as simple as a plant swap fostered a sense of community and giving in a neighborhood that could really use the shot in the arm. They’re lucky to have him and so are we.
I hope Jeff has more events like this. He inspires me to think more community-based in my own neighborhood too. Keep doing what you’re doing, Jeff. It does make a difference. Speaking of PLANTS…