Growing your own flowers can help in numerous ways, improving environmental quality, food security, enhancing personal well-being and community engagement. Whether you have a small balcony or a larger space, incorporating plants into your urban environment can have a positive impact on both your life and the planet.

all photos taken from J.F. garden photography collection.

Here’s a list of easy to grow flowers that thrive at this time: Pansies, primrose, daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, crocuses, and forget-me-nots.
Use garden herbs like lavender and mint for fragrance oils, fragrance sachets, potpourri and teas. Preserved flowers are commonly used in diy’s like candle making, natural soaps, and bath soaks. Search for natural dye alternatives like marigold, beet root, and turmeric for their coloring.

Community
Join community gardens and events through Grow NYC and Greenthumb. New york Botanical Garden offers training and perks year round. Hudson river park has April-Nov monthly commitments. The batter offers open days for family friendly farming.
Thegardenpeople.org and the Riverside Valley Community at riversideparknyc.org are two garden communities located in Harlem, NY that you can volunteer and connect with. You can support urban gardens by visiting local floral shops or ordering door dash.
Harlemgardenps.com (646) 983-9499 : 3546 Broadway 10031
Foreverfloralgifts.com (646)771-7951 : 543 W 145st 10031
Flower Shop (212)222-8001 : 3137 Broadway 10027

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