The volunteering event took place on a vibrant and sunny day, marking the much-anticipated arrival of spring. We gathered at Long Island Native Plant Initiative. The event was scheduled to be from 10 am to 2 pm, on March 16, 2024.
The main focus of our volunteering efforts was to embrace the arrival of spring by revitalizing the garden and preparing it for the season ahead. Our first task involved moving the plants that had been sheltered in the greenhouse during the winter back outside. This careful process ensured that the plants could once again thrive under the natural sunlight and fresh air, signifying a new beginning for the garden.
In addition to relocating the plants, we dedicated a significant portion of our time to clearing away the remnants of winter. The accumulated leaves from the previous season were gathered and thoughtfully dispersed across the lawn. This not only cleaned the area but also repurposed the leaves as a natural fertilizer, contributing to the nourishment and growth of the garden in the coming months.
Throughout the day, the garden attracted several visitors interested in selecting native plants for their own spaces. Our role extended beyond mere gardening tasks; we shared insights into the significance of native plants, emphasizing their importance in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local wildlife.
The day concluded with a meticulous task, extracting seeds from the dried plants. This activity was not only therapeutic but also critical for the garden’s future. By carefully selecting and preserving these seeds, we ensured that the garden would continue to flourish, offering a diverse array of plants for cultivation in the seasons to come.
This volunteering event highlighted the importance of native plants in ecological balance and offered hands-on experience in garden maintenance and cultivation.
Member who participate:
Brian Xiong(4 hours), Hunter Chen(4 hours), Jolina Wu(4 hours), Natalie Tsui(4 hours), Tiffany Lin(4 hours)
Reporter: Tiffany Lin
