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Amidst the vibrant season of spring, numerous gardeners are nurturing their plants. While gardening is beneficial for both the yard and the spirit, it can sometimes strain the budget. This concern prompted the initiation of ‘Take a Plant, Leave a Plant’ in a Denton front yard.
“Everyone should have the opportunity to indulge in gardening, irrespective of their financial situation,” expressed Helen Sanderson, founder of Take a Plant, Leave a Plant Denton. “There’s a certain magic in watching something grow.”
Sanderson established her plant-sharing stand in 2020 during the pandemic, finding solace in gardening during a period of isolation.
“I believe plants played a crucial role in helping me through those lonely times,” she reflected. “There’s an intimate connection when it’s within a neighborhood and community that makes it even more special.”
Similar to a neighborhood library on the sidewalk, visitors can contribute plants they no longer want and take those they fancy. Since its inception, Take a Plant, Leave a Plant Denton has inspired around a dozen similar initiatives across DFW.
“Why not share with like-minded individuals instead of discarding them?” questioned Merida Cervantes, host of Take a Plant, Leave a Plant Lewisville.
Cervantes expanded her initiative to include a sidewalk library with gardening books and a community garden, fostering a sense of community beyond just plants.
“A lot of plant enthusiasts naturally gravitate towards each other,” Cervantes observed. “I’ve witnessed friendships blossom within this group.”
Both Take a Plant, Leave a Plant Denton and Lewisville maintain active Facebook groups where gardening tips and advice are freely exchanged.
To further promote community involvement, Take a Plant, Leave a Plant Denton and Lewisville are organizing a ‘Swap and Shop’ event on May 25 at Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studio in Denton from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Shiloh Fields Community Garden.