Plant
Swaps, originating in 2004, when Urban Roots was just a glimmer in the eye of
some ambitious neighbors, has become extremely successful and continued to thrive. With
many coming out back each year, the event is now in its fifth year and expanded to 2 days in May. The
second of these days is on Saturday May 23rd from 9AM to 12PM, in the
lot across Utica Street from Urban Roots.
Many take advantage of this opportunity presented to them by Urban Roots, to
share some plants that thrive in our climate. Those who are just starting their first gardens are encouraged to attend the event to get tips from avid
gardeners and learn what they need in order to help their garden prosper. It is not necessary to bring plants in
order to participate or to learn more about gardening in the Western New York
area (and to take plans home for your garden).
Urban
Roots opened their retail business in April of 2007, filling two lots with
plants and trees, as well as refurbishing two
storefronts. Plant swaps
contributed to the growth of Urban Roots as one of the organizations first
events. Since then it grew and expanded, along with the sale of heirloom tomatoes and all manner of plants, through the general labor and enthusiasm of the founders, a group of West Side neighbors. The organization has grown so much that it now has over 500 member-owners.
Another upcoming event held through Urban Roots is Recovery
Garden Day, which will be held on Saturday, May 30th from 8AM to 11AM at
the Buffalo Museum of Science.
Four free workshops will be provided with the hope of educating those
interested in topics related to growing vegetables in community and urban
gardens. The event is aimed toward the special interest of growing the food for consumption,
which saves money and nurtures individual and environmental health. Registration forms
for the event should be returned by Thursday, May 28th.
A further list of workshops for gardeners can be found, with
detail of the workshop, on the Urban Roots website. The workshops range from June 2nd
all the way to June 27th for those who may be interested.