Nothing fosters a positive community better than sharing resources, and plants are the top resource, in my opinion! That’s why I just love sharing and trading my homegrown goods with neighbors and friends.
Let me tell you how I found myself in a frugal community that helps me save money as well as make new relationships.
How to Share and Borrow Plants
Here’s a step-by-step guide to sharing plants, and saving both the environment and your wallet:
1 – Finding Your Community
The first step to sharing homegrown goods is finding like-minded individuals. Fortunately, there are numerous online platforms that can connect you with local gardening communities.
Not only will you make new friends on these platforms, but you’ll also find plenty of helpful gardening tips to elevate your skills.
You can search the web for relevant gardening forums. Alternatively, social media platforms, like Facebook and Pinterest, are home to exceptional local gardening groups.
Your local gardening supply store might also connect you with homegrown communities. Additionally, trying your luck at farmer’s markets and other gardening events is the best way to meet people in real life.
That said, you should be open-minded and extroverted when meeting new people. Don’t be afraid to ask for seeds and supplies, and return the favor once you make a connection!
2 – Identify Your Needs and Dividable Plants
Sharing plants to save money requires more thought than you might think. You don’t want to end up with an overcrowded garden that’ll drain your resources.
In contrast, the last thing you need is to give away plants that took years of effort for common seeds or supplies.
Every garden is different, and only you can accurately gauge your requirements. So, be mindful when sharing resources.
One of my favorite tricks is to make a list of all the plants and supplies I have in my garden. Then, I assess what items and seeds I might need and which plants I can share.
This makes for a seamless sharing process for both you and your neighbors. There won’t be any needless back and forth, as you’ll offer exactly what you have and request only your needs.
3 – Divide and Share
Now it’s time to divide and share your goods! You can do this in any way you prefer.
If it’s your first time dividing your plants, it’s crucial to harvest your homegrown plants properly. You must also ensure that the seeds are undamaged, and can be easily replanted.
I love making different baskets that include various essentials. For example, I add fresh crops and complementary herbs to one basket and include a little recipe note for my friends to try it out.
Sometimes, you might end up with plenty of wildflower seeds at the end of the year. What better way to spread the colorful joy than by gifting your local community with the seeds?
You can also make plant kits for novice green thumbs, helping and encouraging them to start their gardening journey.
4 – Lend a Helping Hand
You know your crop best. For this reason, helping your neighbors care for the borrowed plants is an excellent way to foster a friendly environment.
In turn, your neighbors will also share some helpful tips and tricks. This way, you’ll expand your horizons, learn how to care for new plants, as well as save money.
Final Thoughts
Starting your gardening journey is incredibly fulfilling. Not only will you be engaging in a fun activity and learning new skills, but you’ll also be growing your food.
That’s not where the money-saving benefits of gardening end, though! Instead, you can also share any leftover crops, seeds, and flowers with your neighbors.
While their grateful smiles will be enough, they might also return the favor by sharing plants from their garden. What better way to start a community of like-minded individuals?
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.