On August 15, the Syosset ALYUS organization visited the Long Island Plant Initiative to help with various tasks. We worked with many different varieties of plants, potting them into larger containers to promote better growth. We were also assigned to transport plants from the greenhouse to the outdoor nursery, allowing them to receive sunlight. Pam, the founder of the Long Island Plant Initiative, guided us through tasks such as potting, creating more soil, making labels, and preparing trays for others to fill with soil and plant. We planted several types of plants, including Swamp Milkweed, which offers several benefits. Swamp Milkweed is highly attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It is especially crucial for monarch butterflies, as it serves as a primary food source for their larvae. Additionally, as a native plant, Swamp Milkweed is well adapted to local conditions and supports native wildlife, contributing to ecological balance. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance, is drought-tolerant, and does not need extensive care, making it a great choice for naturalistic gardens and wildflower meadows. This also helps in the spread of native plants and the reduction of invasive species in the greenhouse. Another plant we worked with was the Purple Aster. One of the first plants we planted upon arriving at the greenhouse, Purple Asters have several benefits. They have an extended bloom time, flowering from late summer to fall, which adds color and interest to gardens as many other plants complete their bloom cycle. This extended flowering period helps keep gardens lively and attractive. Additionally, many species of Purple Asters are native to North America, making them well-suited to local conditions. They support native ecosystems by providing habitat and food for wildlife. Overall the Syosset AYLUS organization were very succesful at the greenhouse and maintaining its biodiveristy and spreading native plants.
Members who participated: Felix Zheng (4hrs) , Michael Qiao (4hrs) , Anson Ye (4hrs) , Vincent Ye (4hrs) , Rachel Zhang (4hrs)
