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Are you a gardener, looking for ways to save some money while still adding to your collection of flora?
Look no further—I have some great tips for sourcing plants that will cost you nothing!
In today’s post, I’ll cover various places where you can find free plants, including online resources and local communities.
Additionally, I’ll provide some useful tips to help you get the most out of your search for free plants. With these tips, you can build a beautiful garden without breaking the bank.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of free plants!
Contents
Can you really get plants for free?
Absolutely! There are various non-profit organizations that offer free seed programs aimed at encouraging people to grow plants that benefit local wildlife populations. These programs are designed to help people create thriving and sustainable ecosystems in their backyards and gardens.
Additionally, several government and non-government agencies provide free trees, shrubs, vegetables, and other plants to homeowners, community gardens, and parks. These initiatives are often part of larger conservation efforts to improve the air quality, soil health, and overall beauty of the local environment.
So, if you are on a budget, you can still enjoy a beautiful garden by taking advantage of these free plant programs.
What plants can you get for free?
There is an incredible variety of plants that you can acquire for free without having to spend any money. Some of the most common types of plants are vegetables, which can be grown in your garden or in containers and provide a fresh, healthy source of food for your family. Herbs are another popular choice, as they can enhance the flavors of your meals and are also known for their medicinal properties.
In addition to vegetables and herbs, you can also grow fruits, which range from juicy berries to sweet citrus fruits and everything in between. Flowers are another widely available type of plant that can be grown for their beauty or fragrance. Trees and shrubs are larger plants that can provide shade, privacy, and natural beauty to your outdoor space.
Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, there are many different types of plants that you can grow and enjoy for free, without having to spend any money. All you need is a little bit of time, patience, and a willingness to learn, and you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that will provide you with endless enjoyment and satisfaction.
Where to get free plants near me?
Here are some simple tips to help you get more plants for your garden, along with places where you can find a diverse selection of plants.
1. Ask friends and family
If you’re looking to add some plants to your collection, one way to do it is to ask your friends and family for help. They may have a surplus of plants that they would be more than happy to share with you. If you have a friend or a relative who loves gardening, there’s a good chance they might have some plants to give away.
When you do reach out to them, it’s important to be polite and respectful. Tell them you want some plants and ask if they have any to spare. You might be surprised at how many people are willing to part with some of their own plants.
In some cases, they might have started too many seedlings or have plants that need to be divided. This is a great opportunity to get some new plants without having to spend any money.
If they do have plants to give to you, be sure to offer to pick them up. This will save them the trouble of bringing them to you, and it also gives you a chance to thank them in person for their generosity.
2. Divide existing plants
Growing plants is a wonderful and rewarding experience, but purchasing new plants can be expensive. Luckily, there are many ways to acquire new plants for your garden without breaking the bank. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways is to divide up any existing plants you already have.
This is a great method, and particularly effective for plants such as hostas and peonies that grow quickly and produce large clumps. Over time, you can divide one plant into two, three, or even more plants. This not only saves you money but also helps your garden to flourish and look more beautiful.
Dividing plants may seem intimidating, but it’s quite simple. First, choose a healthy plant with a strong root system. Then, dig it up and separate the roots into smaller portions. Each portion should have some roots and leaves attached. Finally, plant the newly separated portions in the soil, water them well, and watch them grow.
If you’re not sure how to divide plants, don’t worry. Many online resources can help. You can check out articles such as “How and when to divide perennials,” “Plant Division: How To Divide Plants,” and “How to divide herb roots.” These resources will give you detailed instructions and helpful tips on how to divide your plants successfully.
3. Get free Butterfly Milkweed & Black-Eyed Susan plants from Alt National Park Service
If you’re interested in planting a garden and want to help out the declining populations of pollinators like bees and butterflies, you’ll be happy to know that Alt National Park Service is offering free Butterfly Milkweed and Black-Eyed Susan seed packs. These two plants are crucial for the survival of butterfly and bee populations, and by planting them in your garden, you can make a significant impact in restoring the populations of these important pollinators.
To get the free seed packs, all you have to do is complete the form on the Alt National Park Service website, and the organization will mail them out to you. Once you receive the seed packs, you’ll need to plant them yourself, but don’t worry, it’s easy and straightforward. In no time, you’ll have some beautiful flowers blooming in your garden, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re making a positive difference in the world. So, take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to help out the bees and butterflies while beautifying your garden.
4. Join a local gardening club
Gardening can be a great way to bring color, life, and beauty to your outdoor space. However, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming if you’re just starting out. Fortunately, there are some easy tips you can follow to get started, and one of them is to join a local gardening club.
By joining a gardening club in your area, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals who share your love for gardening. You can learn from their experiences, get advice on what to plant, and share your own gardening knowledge with others. It’s a great way to build community while pursuing a common interest.
But that’s not all. When you join a gardening club, you may also be able to get some free plants for your garden. Gardeners often divide their plants to keep them healthy and growing, and they may have some extra plants to share with club members. This means you can expand your garden without spending a dime.
So, if you’re interested in gardening and want to connect with others who share your passion, check out any gardening clubs in your area. It’s a great way to learn, grow, and build a community around a shared love of gardening.
5. Host a plant or seed swap
If you have a group of friends or family members who share a passion for gardening, consider organizing a plant or seed swap. This is a fun and cost-effective way to add diversity to your garden. Hosting a plant swap is easy—you can invite your fellow gardeners to bring their extra plants, seeds, or cuttings to your house, and everyone can share their gardening knowledge and experiences over a delicious lunch.
By participating in a plant swap, you can benefit from the expertise of other gardeners and discover new varieties of plants that you may not have otherwise found. You can also get rid of any excess plants or seeds and, in turn, get some new ones in return. This is a great way to refresh your garden without spending a lot of money.
In addition, a plant or seed swap is a great opportunity to socialize with like-minded friends and family members. You can share tips, tricks, ideas, and even trade stories of your gardening successes and challenges. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, and a fun way to spend an afternoon with your loved ones.
6. Search for free plants on Craigslist
Are you an avid gardener or just looking to add some greenery to your home without breaking the bank? Well, look no further than Craigslist. You might be surprised to learn that people often give away bulbs, saplings, houseplants, seeds, and trees on this website. It’s an excellent resource to find free plants and gardening materials in your local area.
To begin, navigate to the “For Sale” section of Craigslist for your city. There, you’ll find a “Free” section, which is where people offer items for free. Click on this link, and you will be directed to a page that lists free items available in your area. If you’re searching for plants specifically, use the search bar to enter keywords such as “plants” or “houseplants” and hit enter. This will filter the results and show you only the relevant listings.
It’s important to note that not all cities or regions have many free plants available on Craigslist at all times. However, it’s always worth checking the website regularly to see if anything new has been posted. When you do find something you’re interested in, always prioritize safety. Arrange to meet the person in a public place, and if possible, bring someone along with you.
7. Ask at construction sites
If you want to add some greenery to your yard, visiting construction sites can be a great option. When construction companies begin work on a new building site, they often need to remove plants like shrubs and trees to make room for the new construction. However, many of these plants can be saved and transplanted to your own yard.
To find these plants, look for construction sites in your local area. You can also check for road expansion projects and renovations, which can offer opportunities to snag some free plants. Once you’ve spotted a potential source of greenery, call the construction company and ask if you can take any of the plants they are removing.
By doing this, you not only get free plants for your yard, but you also help reduce waste. The construction company can dispose of the plants they remove, or you can give them a new home in your yard. It’s a win-win situation!
8. Get free seeds from Garden Supply Stores
If you love gardening, you’ll be happy to know that you can find some free plants at garden supply stores. These stores often have freebies, such as seeds or plants, that you can use. There are many ways to get these freebies, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
One of the easiest ways to stay up-to-date with garden supply stores’ deals and freebies is by signing up for their newsletters or email lists. Once you’re subscribed, you’ll receive coupons, promo codes, discounts on your first purchase, freebies, and other great deals. This is a great way to get free stuff from the store without having to do much work.
If you frequent a particular store, you may want to consider joining its loyalty or rewards program. These programs give you points for every purchase you make, which you can later redeem for free stuff, such as plants or gardening tools. Many of these programs also offer special deals, discounts, and coupons to members, making it even easier to save money while getting free stuff.
Another way to stay informed about garden supply stores’ freebies and deals is by following them on social media. Stores often post coupons, freebies, giveaways, and other great deals on their social media pages. By following them, you’ll be the first to know about any new deals or freebies.
If you’re lucky, you can also try entering contests and giveaways. Many stores and gardening websites run contests and giveaways where you can win free plants or gardening supplies. This is a great way to get free stuff while having fun and trying your luck.
Finally, it’s worth noting that garden supply stores often have some sort of deal on offer. For example, some stores offer buy-one-get-one-free deals on plants, which is a great way to save money while getting more plants for your garden.
To help you get started, here are some garden supply stores that offer freebies and other great deals: Burpee Seeds and Plants, Renee’s Garden, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, DollarSeed, and American Meadows. Don’t forget to check out your local garden stores too, as they may have some great deals and freebies available.
9. Save your own seeds
If you want to add some vegetables or fruits to your backyard garden, I have a really simple tip for anyone who can use it! It involves saving your own seeds. However, saving seeds properly is not as easy as just putting them in a bag and storing them for later. It’s essential to know the right way to save and store them so they remain viable and healthy to be planted later on. If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry. There are plenty of resources available that can guide you through the process of saving your own seeds.
One great resource is Seed Savers Exchange, which provides a comprehensive guide on how to save seeds. Another helpful guide is Seed Sovereignty’s Guide to Seed Saving, available in PDF format. Mother Earth News offers a step-by-step guide to saving vegetable seeds in your backyard. Better Homes & Gardens also provides useful information on saving seeds from your garden to plant next year.
Additionally, Good Housekeeping offers six tips for storing your saved seeds. By following these expert tips and guidelines, you can easily save your own seeds and enjoy a thriving backyard garden for years to come!
10. Ask for plants as a gift
If you’re looking to add some color and greenery to your garden or to bring some fresh air into your home with houseplants, there’s an easy and cost-effective way to do so. Simply ask for plants as a gift on special occasions such as your birthday or during the holidays. It’s a great way to expand your plant collection without spending a lot of money.
Many people often ask what you would like as a gift, so take advantage of this opportunity and tell them that you would love to receive plants or gift cards to stores that sell plants. This way, you can pick out some new plant varieties that you may not have otherwise considered, or even try your hand at growing some vegetables. Not only will you have a beautiful and thriving garden, but you’ll also have a great story about how it all started with a simple gift request.
11. Take advantage of volunteer plants
Volunteer plants are a fascinating phenomenon that occurs in gardens. They are plants that sprout and grow on their own, without any intentional planting or cultivation by the gardener. Instead, they grow from seeds dispersed by flowers in previous years or that have hitched a ride on the fur or skin of small animals, such as squirrels or birds. These plants can appear anywhere in the garden, and they can be of various types, including flowers, herbs, or vegetables.
Once volunteer plants show up in your garden, you can take care of them just like any other plant. You can water them, fertilize them, and even relocate them to a more suitable spot in your garden. However, keep in mind that volunteer plants may not always grow where you want them to, and they might compete with other plants for resources. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious when transplanting them.
If you want to learn more about transplanting volunteer plants, we recommend checking out this comprehensive guide. It provides detailed instructions on how to move the plants without damaging their roots, how to prepare the new location for the transplants, and how to care for the plants after transplantation. With this guide, you can successfully move your volunteer plants to a more desirable location in your garden, where they can thrive and add beauty to your outdoor space.
12. Look for free tree programs near you
Did you know that many cities and states nationwide have free tree programs for their residents? These programs offer a variety of tree species for planting in public and private spaces, such as yards, parks, and schools. If you are interested in getting a free tree, here are a few examples of programs you can check out:
- City Plants in Los Angeles
- Sacramento Shade in Sacramento
- Idaho Power Shade Tree Project in Idaho
To find a free tree program near you, simply go to your preferred search engine, such as Google, and enter the phrase “free tree program,” followed by your town, city, county, or state. For instance, if you live in Maine, you could search for “free trees Maine.” This should bring up a list of local programs that provide saplings to residents. Not only do these programs help beautify your community, but they also provide numerous benefits, such as shade, cleaner air, and improved mental health.
13. Grow plants from cuttings
Growing plants from cuttings can be a fun and rewarding experience. If you’re new to this, you may not know where to start. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to get started. One of the most important things you’ll need is a bottle of rooting hormone powder. This powder contains plant hormones, which help to encourage the growth of roots in cuttings.
To begin, select a healthy plant from which you’d like to take a cutting. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears, snip off a small piece of the stem (around 4-6 inches in length) just below a node (a small bump on the stem where a leaf or branch emerges). Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting.
Next, dip the bottom of the cutting into the rooting hormone powder, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess powder. You can then plant the cutting in a small pot filled with moist potting soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or dome to create a humid environment for the cutting to grow roots.
Place the pot in a warm, bright spot (but not in direct sunlight) and moisten the soil. In a few weeks, you should start to see new growth and roots forming. Once the cutting has established roots, you can gradually acclimate it to normal growing conditions and eventually transplant it into a larger pot or your garden.
14. Ask at gardening stores
One approach to acquiring new plants is to check with local stores to see if they have any old plants they no longer want.
Often, stores are too busy to devote the time and energy needed to revive sickly plants, so they opt to discard them instead.
By inquiring about these plants, you may be able to get them for free. After getting the plants, you can then employ your gardening skills to nurse them back to health. With proper care, these plants can flourish and enhance the beauty of your living space.
15. Look on Facebook Marketplace
Are you looking for some free plants to add to your home or garden? If so, you may want to check out Facebook Marketplace. While most people know this site as a platform for buying and selling items locally, it also has a section for free stuff. This section is a great place to find plants you can add to your collection without spending a penny.
To find free plants on Facebook Marketplace, click the “Free” category. This will show you all the items people give away for free in your local area. You can then use the search bar to look for specific types of plants, such as succulents or herbs.
It’s important to note that not all Facebook Marketplace listings are legitimate, so exercise caution when contacting a seller. Before you agree to meet up with someone to pick up your free plants, make sure you’ve done your research and read the seller’s profile and reviews. If something seems off, it’s best to trust your instincts and move on to another listing.
Facebook Marketplace can be a great resource for finding free plants. While you may not always find what you’re looking for, it’s definitely worth taking a quick look to see if there are any treasures waiting to be discovered.
16. Check schools, churches, and offices
When schools, churches, and office buildings decorate for special occasions or holidays, they often use potted plants as part of their decor. However, after the event, these plants are frequently discarded, which is a waste of resources and a missed opportunity for reuse. Rather than letting these plants go to waste, it’s a great idea to ask if you can take them home.
In most cases, the people in charge of the event will gladly give you the plants for free, as they would rather see them go to a good home than be thrown away. However, it’s essential to ask permission first, as taking something that isn’t yours without consent is never appropriate.
If you have too many plants for your own use, you can also consider donating them to others in your community who might appreciate them. This could be a great way to give back and share the beauty of these plants while reducing waste and helping the environment. So don’t be afraid to speak up and ask, you never know what treasures you might find.
Free plants online (by mail)
Did you know several companies offer free plant samples and seeds by mail? That’s right!
If you want to add some greenery to your garden without spending a dime, you might want to check out some options. From flowers and herbs to vegetables and fruits, there is a wide variety of plants that you can get for free. Some companies even provide gardening tips and instructions to help you grow your plants successfully.
17. Get a free gardening kit from Back to the Roots
If you’re working at a daycare or are supporting multiple neighborhood kids at home and looking for a fun and educational activity, you can request free bundles of organic gardening kits from Back to the Roots. These kits contain everything you need to grow plants with your at-home students, including seeds, soil, and pots.
As a teacher or a parent, you can complete an online form on the Back to the Roots website to request seeds that will grow into plants for the garden. This is a great opportunity to introduce children to the joys of gardening and teach them about the importance of sustainability and organic farming.
Back to the Roots is a company that specializes in creating easy-to-use kits for growing food at home. They are committed to empowering people to grow their own food and promoting a more sustainable food system. If you want to get your hands on one of their gardening kits, head to their website and fill out the form to request yours today!
18. Look out for free seeds inside gardening catalogs
Are you interested in gardening and planting your own vegetables, herbs, or flowers? If so, did you know that seed and gardening catalogs can be a great resource for you? Many of these catalogs provide free seed samples you can plant in your garden. While it’s not guaranteed that every catalog will offer free seeds, it’s worth checking out some of the most popular ones for free samples.
Here are a few examples of some of the most reputable gardening catalogs that offer a wide variety of seeds and plants: Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds Catalog, Burpee Seeds and Plants Catalog, Brent & Becky’s Catalogue, Botanical Interests Catalog, Seed Savers Catalog, Annie’s Heirloom Seeds Catalog, Burrell Seeds Catalog, and Burgess Seed & Plants Co. Catalogs.
What’s even better is that some of these catalogs are free to order, which means you can get access to their collection of seeds without having to pay an additional fee.
19. Get free seeds and trees from the National Wildlife Federation
The National Wildlife Federation is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and conserving wildlife and their habitats. One of its initiatives is to help butterflies thrive by offering free Milkweed seeds to interested individuals.
These seeds can be used to grow Milkweed plants in your garden, which serve as the primary food source for monarch butterflies. In addition, the National Wildlife Federation provides valuable tips and resources for gardening on your windowsill, patio, porch, or backyard.
To receive the free Milkweed seeds, you must pledge to become one of the National Wildlife Federation’s Butterfly Heroes. This pledge involves planting Milkweed plants to restore butterfly populations, and more than 200,000 pledges have been received in the past five years.
Furthermore, the National Wildlife Federation also provides free native tree seedlings to partners who plant them through local restoration projects or community tree giveaway events. These seedlings are distributed to individuals at these events, allowing them to plant and care for the trees in their homes.
If you’re interested in receiving free Milkweed seeds or native tree seedlings, you can visit the National Wildlife Federation’s website and pledge to become a Butterfly Hero.
20. Look out for catalog promotions
One way to get some free plants or seeds is to find a plant or seed catalog that you haven’t ordered from before. Many catalogs offer promotional deals for new customers, such as free seeds or plants up to a certain dollar value, usually up to $25. It’s definitely worth checking out different catalogs to see if they have any such promotions on offer.
You can start by exploring the magazines I mentioned earlier to see if they have any deals for first-time customers. This way, you can get some new plants or seeds for free and add some variety to your garden without spending any money.
21. Use seed exchanges to get free seeds
Gardening is a wonderful hobby that brings joy and beauty to many people’s lives. However, buying new plants for your garden can be costly, especially if you’re looking for various species. That’s where seed swap groups come in! Seed swap groups are an easy and affordable way to expand your garden.
In these groups, you can exchange the seeds you don’t want for the ones you want. This way, you can get your hands on many plants without spending much money. Although the seeds are usually free, you may have to cover the cost of postage to send and receive them. But the cost is minimal compared to the benefits you’ll reap from your new plants.
If you’re interested in joining a seed swap group, there are many options. Some popular seed exchanges include Seed Savers Exchange, Houzz Seed Exchange, and Southern Exposure Seed Exchange. These groups offer a variety of seeds, from flowers to vegetables to herbs.
Moreover, you can also search online for seed-swapping groups that are specific to your area. A quick Google search will reveal several options for seed exchanges in your town, city, county, or state. This is a great way to find local seed exchanges and connect with other gardening enthusiasts in your community.
22. Get free seeds from seed libraries
If you’re new to gardening and looking for an easy way to fill your garden with beautiful plants, you might want to consider using seed libraries. The concept of seed libraries is simple: you borrow seeds and then return an equal or greater number of seeds once you’ve grown your plants. Seed libraries differ from seed exchanges because you don’t have to provide seeds upfront.
If you’re interested in starting a seed library, Seed Libraries is a great resource. This website offers free information on how to start a library, how to connect with others who have started libraries, and how to maintain a library once you’ve established one. To find a seed library near you, simply go to Google and type in “seed library,” followed by the name of your town, city, county, or state. This should help you locate a seed library in your area.
By using a seed library, you can save money while enjoying all the benefits of gardening. Plus, you’ll be able to connect with other gardening enthusiasts in your community and help preserve heirloom varieties of plants for future generations.
23. Get free wildflowers from Feed A Bee
There is an excellent organization called Feed a Bee that is dedicated to supporting local pollinators like bees and butterflies. Pollinators face many challenges, and one of the biggest issues they face is a lack of forage or plants and flowers used for food. To address this issue, Feed a Bee is willing to mail out free seeds to people so they can plant in their gardens. This allows people to add some beautiful plants to their garden beds and supports pollinators in their local area.
The seeds provided by Feed a Bee are a mix of wildflowers, such as partridge pea, black-eyed Susan, and purple coneflower. These seeds grow well in most regions and can provide a food source for pollinators throughout the growing season.
It’s essential to note that there is a limit of one order per household while supplies last. To get the free seeds, all you need to do is complete the form on their website. By doing so, you’ll not only receive beautiful flowers for your garden but also support local pollinators in a meaningful way. So, don’t wait any longer and get your free seeds from Feed a Bee today!
24. Get free plants from Freecycle
Next on our list is a website called Freecycle. This website is designed specifically for people who are looking for free items that they can use in their daily lives. Freecycle is a platform where people can give away their unwanted items to those who need them, and vice versa. The website has many items available, from furniture to appliances, clothing, books, and more.
If you are looking for free plants, Freecycle could be an excellent resource. You can browse the website to see if anyone nearby is giving away plants, or you can even create a request for free plants on the website. This way, you can connect with people in your community with plants they no longer want or need and get them for free.
25. Get butterfly garden seeds from Live Monarch
Live Monarch is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of monarch butterflies. It offers free butterfly garden seeds suitable for your location, which will be delivered straight to your doorstep.
You can choose between Milkweed or mixed seeds by sending a self-addressed envelope to Live Monarch. The process is very simple and easy to follow.
Visit the Live Monarch for more information about obtaining the seeds and the address to send your envelope. This is a great opportunity to contribute to preserving the butterfly monarchs while creating a beautiful garden in your backyard.
26. Check out seed groups and forums
If you’re interested in gardening and looking for ways to get some plants for free, there are several groups and forums dedicated to seed sharing. One such group is the Great American Seed Swap/Trade Project, which facilitates the exchange of seeds between gardeners across the country.
Another place to look is Facebook, where you can find various groups where people occasionally give away seeds to fellow gardeners. You can also search on Reddit for free seeds or plants, as the site features freebie groups like /r/freebies and /r/FREE where people can give things away.
In addition to these online resources, you can also look for gardening and plant forums to connect with expert gardeners who may have extra seeds to share. These forums are great places to learn more about gardening and get tips and advice from seasoned gardeners. If you find someone with extra seeds willing to send them to beginners, you’ll just need to have a self-addressed envelope ready so they can easily send the seeds your way.
By checking out these seed-sharing groups and forums, you can get some free plants and seeds while connecting with other gardening enthusiasts and expanding your knowledge of the gardening world.
27. Get free seeds from Xcel Energy
Many organizations offer free plants to help pollinators thrive, and Xcel Energy is one of them. They provide a pollinator seed pack that you can get for free by simply filling out an online form. This initiative supports the essential role of pollinators in our ecosystem, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
You can help these species thrive and maintain a balanced environment by planting these seeds. So, if you’re interested in getting your hands on some free seeds, be sure to check out the Xcel Energy website and fill out the form to claim your seed pack.
28. Browse OfferUp for free plants
If you are a plant lover and looking to expand your collection without breaking the bank, OfferUp could be the perfect platform for you. OfferUp is a website and mobile app that allows users to buy and sell various items. But did you know it also has a dedicated section for free items, including plants?
To find free plants on OfferUp, first, head to the free section of the site, which is linked below. However, as the section is not categorized, locating a specific plant type or variety may be challenging. A better way to find what you’re looking for is to enter specific terms such as “houseplant,” “seeds,” or “trees” in the search bar and hit enter. This will give you a list of results with plants that match your search terms.
Keep in mind that not all plants displayed on the site will be free. To locate free plants, filter your search results by “Price: Low to High.” This way, you can find the cheapest or even free plants on the site.
Even if you don’t find any free plants, you may still get some great bargains by checking out the cheapest options available. So, head over to OfferUp and browse through their free and low-priced plant listings to find your next green companion.
29. Join the Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting tree care and conservation. It is a group for people who love trees and want to learn more about caring for them.
One of the benefits of joining the Arbor Day Foundation is that you’ll receive 10 free trees specifically chosen for your zip code. This means that you’ll get trees suitable for the climate, soil, and other conditions in your area.
In addition to the free trees, members also receive discounts on trees and shrubs through the foundation’s online nursery. This is a great way to save money on plants you may want to add to your yard or garden.
But that’s not all – your membership in the Arbor Day Foundation also contributes to tree-planting efforts. For every membership, 10 trees are planted in U.S. forests and 10 in threatened rainforests. This means that by joining the Arbor Day Foundation, you’re not just getting free trees and discounts, but you’re also helping to make a positive impact on the environment.
Get free plants from the government
There are many government giveaways available, including free plants, if you know where to look.
30. Get free trees from the government
If you’re looking to add some greenery to your yard, you’ll be pleased to know that there are many ways to get plants and trees for free, and some of the best sources for free trees are government programs.
In fact, many states have programs specifically designed to give away trees for free to help promote a greener environment.
Some examples of such programs include the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Trees for Neighborhoods Seattle, Portland Parks and Recreation: Urban Forestry, and the Austin Community Tree Program. By participating in these programs, you can get free trees that can help improve air quality, reduce energy costs, and enhance the overall beauty of your yard.
To find out if there’s a government program near you that offers free trees, simply search for the term “free trees” followed by the name of your city, county, or state.
Tips for getting cheap plants
In the previous section, I provided many ways to get plants for free. Now, I would like to share some tips to help you acquire plants at a lower cost.
I understand that purchasing plants can be quite expensive, but with these tips, you can get significant discounts, great deals on houseplants, and even find places to purchase plants at a super low cost. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, these tips will be useful.
So, let’s explore how you can add more greenery to your home without breaking the bank.
Look at clearance racks
If you want to save money while still enjoying the beauty of plants in your home or garden, consider checking out the clearance section at your local gardening store.
Oftentimes, stores will offer plants that are struggling or on the verge of dying for significantly reduced prices, sometimes as low as $1.
While these plants may not look their best at purchase, they can still be nursed back to health with a little TLC. By taking advantage of these deals, you can save a substantial amount of money compared to purchasing a healthy plant at full price.
So next time you’re at the gardening store, be sure to take a stroll through the clearance section to see if there are any great deals waiting for you.
Purchase plants or seeds at local markets
One simple and effective tip for gardening enthusiasts is to consider buying plants from local markets. This option can provide you with many benefits, such as access to seedlings directly from growers, which can save you a significant amount of money that you would have otherwise spent on retail costs. At local markets, you can also find a wide range of plants, including flowers, herbs, native plants, and veggie seedlings, at a low price.
In addition to the monetary benefits, purchasing from local markets allows you to interact with local gardeners and growers. They can provide valuable insights and tips about the plants that grow best in your region and how to care for them. This information can be especially helpful if you are new to gardening or want to experiment with new plants.
Furthermore, you can also learn about the best practices for pest control, organic fertilization, and other gardening techniques specific to your region. This can help you become a more knowledgeable gardener and make the most of your gardening experience. All in all, buying plants from local markets is a smart and cost-effective way to enhance your gardening experience while supporting your local community.
Check out yard sales and estate sales
If you’re a gardening fan and love filling your home with beautiful plants, then you should know that you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune to get a decent collection. You can find some amazing plant deals at yard sales and estate sales. These sales can be a great source of plants, as well as other gardening supplies.
To get the best deals on plants at yard sales and estate sales, it’s a good idea to arrive early. If you can’t make it early, try to get there near the end of the day when sellers are eager to get rid of stuff. That way, you can often get plants cheaper than you would have earlier in the day. However, you should remember that the selection may not be as good if you arrive towards the end of the day.
You won’t always find plants on offer, but sometimes you will, and it’s worth checking out. When you find plants you like, offer a low, but reasonable amount of money to take them off the seller’s hands. It’s always a good idea to have a specific price in mind before you start negotiating.
While some plants at these sales may not be in the best condition, you can revive them and bring them back to their former beauty with tender loving care. Before buying any plants, check them over carefully for signs of disease or pests. It’s also a good idea to ask the seller about the care and maintenance of the plant, so you know what you’re getting into.
Shop online
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to buy plants, whether for your garden or home, shopping online can be a great option. Online retailers often offer plants at lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores because they don’t have the same overhead costs. Physical stores have to pay for rent, utilities, and other expenses, which can increase the prices of the items they sell. Online stores, on the other hand, don’t have those same costs.
If you’re interested in buying houseplants, Amazon and The Sill are two good options. Both sites offer a wide selection of plants at competitive prices. Of course, it’s always a good idea to compare prices between online stores and your local retailers to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
While shopping online can be a great way to save money on plants, it’s important to note that there are some potential downsides to consider. For example, you won’t be able to see the plants in person before you buy them, so you’ll have to rely on photos and descriptions provided by the retailer. Additionally, shipping plants can be risky, as they may become damaged or stressed during transit.
Overall, shopping online for plants can be a great way to save money and access a wider selection of options. Just be sure to research and choose a reputable retailer with good customer reviews to help ensure a positive shopping experience.
Use coupons, promo codes, and other deals
If you’re looking for an easy way to save some money while buying plants, you can make use of various coupons and promo codes available on the internet.
Coupon websites like RetailMeNot offer coupons for stores that sell plants. So, it’s always a good idea to check these websites before you make a purchase. By doing so, you can get amazing deals and discounts on the store you plan to shop at. Usually, these coupons or promo codes can get you a significant discount or an offer like BOGO (buy one, get one free).
Another way to save money while shopping is using a browser extension like Honey. Honey is a free browser extension that automatically finds and applies coupon codes when you shop online. It saves you a lot of time and effort as you don’t have to search for coupons on multiple sites. Honey finds the best coupons and applies them, allowing you to get the maximum discount possible. So, if you want to save money while buying plants, check out these websites and browser extensions.
The bottom line
The joy of gardening is that it doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. You can add to your home or garden without breaking the bank. There are numerous ways to get free plants, and you have plenty of options to choose from.
One way to get free plants is through organizations that mail out seeds to help local pollinators. These organizations are focused on supporting the local ecosystem and will often send you seeds for free. You could also check sites like Craigslist and OfferUp to find people who are giving away seeds. This way, you can get your hands on different types of plants that you might not have considered before.
The government and local programs are also great sources of free plants. Many programs are focused on planting trees and improving the environment. You can check with your local government or environmental organizations to see if they have any programs that offer free plants. These programs are often designed to help you start your gardening projects.
Another option is to take a more DIY approach. You can save seeds from your existing plants and use them to grow new ones. Additionally, you can divide up existing plants or transplant volunteer plants. These methods are not only free, but they can also be a great way to propagate your favorite plants and make more of them.
Many options are available to suit everyone, from beginner gardeners to experts. With a little research and effort, you can have a beautiful garden filled with various plants without spending much money.
