Attention Gardeners!
Here is a special free event, known to many Newton gardeners, which has been held for almost 40 years at Mary Morganti’s house. It has expanded in popularity to the point it is being held at a larger venue to accommodate more people! Mary has potted up over 150 plants herself from her garden to make sure there is enough to go around. She even found some milkweed for those who want to encourage Monarch butterflies. It’s a great chance to share extra plants you have and pick up ones you don’t have. What a nice way to ease out of quarantine and get outside safely.
When is the event?
Saturday, June 12, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. In the event of rain, we will postpone the event to Sunday, June 13.
Where is the event?
For the first time this year, the event will be hosted by Historic Newton and take place at the Durant-Kenrick House & Grounds, 286 Waverley Ave, Newton, MA, 02458
Isn’t this event usually at Mary’s house in May?
We’re doing something a little different this year!
Why are masks required for this outdoor event?
Because social distancing will be difficult at this event, out of respect for our guests with health challenges and those unable yet to be vaccinated, we request that everyone wear a properly fitting face covering during your time at the plant swap.
How does a plant swap work?
If you have plants (or other garden items) you’d like to swap for something else, bring them to the event, and take home something new in exchange. Please bring something (tray, box, etc.) to carry the plants you are taking home.
Do I have to bring something? Do I have to take something new home?
No! If you don’t have plants to trade, you can still take home something new. If you don’t want to take home something new, you can still donate plants. And if you really just want to come for the outdoors and to spend some time talking with other plant people, you are still welcome to attend.
What do I need to do if I want to donate plants for the swap?
Please bring your plants (or any other garden items) individually packaged and labeled for easy sorting and distribution. If you would like to drop off your items the day before the event, someone will be on-site at Durant-Kenrick to receive them on Friday, June 11, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, children are welcome. Because the Durant-Kenrick House and Grounds are on land stewarded for millennia by the Massachusett people, Historic Newton’s Education Manager Kelsey Merriam will be on-site to teach students about the Native American Three Sisters planting system and share other gardening information for children. Children over the age of 2 should also wear a mask.
Where do I park?
Our small parking lot will be reserved for pickups/drop-offs and for accessible parking for those with physical mobility challenges. You can park on the even-numbered side of the street along Waverley Ave, Kenrick St, and Eliot Memorial Rd.
What if I have a question not answered here?
Email the Durant-Kenrick Manager, Cynthia Cowan, at ccowan@historicnewton.org.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
See the information page at https://www.newtonma.gov/home/showpublishedimage/3952/637570308329200000