Scrubbing may sound a bit dodgy, but it is actually a great sustainable tip to save plants from destruction. And it's free too. So come on, grab your shovel and go bushwhacking! We took part in a bush raid at an old ABN AMRO headquarters and came home with a load of beautiful plants. These rescued specimens are now happily growing on in our garden.
Sustainable garden plants, join bushwhackers!
OK, so let's be clear: shrub robbing is definitely not a clandestine nocturnal action with a shovel in your hand, but an organised initiative with a clear mission: to save greenery from demolition. Stichting Struikroven works with housing associations, property developers and municipalities to give plants, shrubs and even trees a second life. When a building is demolished or renovated, companies report to Struikroven to have their office gardens or green spaces cleared. And no, you don't have to do that alone! Together with volunteers and local residents, you turn it into a green day, complete with handy gardening tips and help with digging out. This way, these plants transform from waste to an asset for your garden - and you contribute to more biodiversity and circularity.
Everything is allowed to go at bushfalls: from large precious trees to small perennial plants.
Save strong plants from the container!
Plants that have stood in one place for years are often well rooted and robust. When they are renovated or demolished, they often disappear into the container without mercy. An eternal shame, because these plants are of great value to insects, birds and the ecosystem. By saving them, you help nature and get free greenery for your garden. At a shrub rescue session, volunteers will be on hand with advice, but be sure to bring your own shovel. The offer ranges from small plants to complete trees. In short, everything to brighten up your garden!
Looking for free plants? Go bushwhacking!
Do you want to bushwhack too? Keep the agenda keep an eye on the Struikroven website and check whether there is an event near you soon. That way, you give greenery a second chance, save money and have a great time. Because besides saving greenery, you also meet other gardeners. So put on your gardening gloves and go for it!
More sustainable gardening tips
- Also see: borrow seeds from the seed library.
- Also see: Go for peat-free potting soil.
- Also see: also go for a green garden fence.
Photo credits: thegreenlist.nl.
