Volunteer
Volunteers are a critical part of the success of the sale. We welcome help with potting plants at TSCG before the sale, and with help with setting up, taking down, or pitching in at the sale itself. It’s a great opportunity to be a part of the community. Click here to view the volunteer roles and sign up! Or send an email to plantsale@btlt.org with “volunteer” in the subject line.
What to donate
We appreciate beneficial species of all kinds:
- We define “beneficial” as providing food for birds, pollinators and insects, those that provide exceptional beauty or are unusual, and those that are edible for humans. The more unusual the plant, the better!
- Perennials for shade and sun
- Trees, vines, and shrubs
- Annuals and vegetables-grown in cells, small pots or 6 packs with sterile potting soil. Please provide legible labels.
- We cannot accept plants listed as invasive or potentially invasive by the State of Maine. Click HERE for more information and a list of plants.
- Can’t donate plants? We welcome donations of pre-bagged, commercial organic potting soil or compost, or gift certificates to local garden centers!
How to Prepare Donations
- We only accept bare root donations. The rise of soil-borne invasive species is a concern to our community! Please refer to Cooperative Extension’s Best Practices for Plant Sale Donors and Buyers in Maine.
- To prepare your plants for donation, loosen the soil around the plant. Use a shovel to dig a circle around the plant. Lift the plant by the bottom of the stalk and shake gently to remove as much soil as possible. Place in a bucket of warm water, swish, gently, and remove. You can then place the plant in it’s donation container.
- We appreciate 3-4 of each variety if possible. You can store these in water with a bit of bagged organic compost to provide the plant with food. (Large yogurt/milk containers work great!)
- Please label with the common name, Latin name and other tidbits that will be helpful.
How to Donate
Once you know what you are donating, or if you have questions about your donation, please email plantsale@btlt.org with “Plant Donation” in the subject line and include:
- List of plants you will be donating with name, height, color, sun/shade.
- Number of each variety you will be donating.
- Your phone number/email so we can reach you if needed.
PLEASE DROP OFF YOUR DONATIONS:
- Between May 1-20, 2023
- We’ll have a location set up at the Tom Settlemire Community Garden, 90 Maurice Drive in Brunswick, at of the red shed under the small sign.
If you have questions please email plantsale@btlt.org.