Gardening can be a rewarding hobby, but purchasing plants and supplies can quickly become expensive. The good news is that there are numerous ways to get free plants to expand your garden without spending a dime. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these methods will help you grow your collection while keeping your wallet happy. After all, as we always say at Savings Grove, the goal is to "spend less and save as much as you can!"
20 Places to Get Free Plants in 2025: Expand Your Garden on a Budget
This comprehensive guide will show you 20 legitimate places and methods to get free plants in 2025, helping you create a lush garden without the hefty price tag. Let's dive in!
1. Community Plant Swaps
Community plant swaps have become increasingly popular in recent years. These events bring together plant enthusiasts who trade cuttings, seeds, and even mature plants. Check Facebook groups, community boards, or websites like Nextdoor to find plant swaps in your area. You can bring cuttings from your existing plants to trade for new varieties. It's a fantastic way to diversify your collection without spending money while connecting with fellow plant lovers.
2. Freecycle Network
The Freecycle Network is a grassroots, nonprofit organization that facilitates giving and receiving items for free in your local community. Many gardeners use this platform to give away extra plants, seeds, and gardening supplies. Create an account, join your local group, and keep an eye out for plant offerings. You can also post requests for specific plants you're looking for – you'd be surprised how many generous gardeners are willing to share!
3. Reddit's r/TakeaPlantLeaveaPlant
This Reddit community follows a simple concept: take a plant, leave a plant. With over 100,000 members, it's a thriving marketplace for plant trades. Users post photos of plants they're willing to trade, and interested parties can offer their own plants in exchange. While you technically need to have at least one plant to participate fully, many experienced members are willing to send free cuttings to beginners who show genuine interest in the hobby.
4. Facebook Marketplace Free Section
Many people give away plants on Facebook Marketplace when they're moving, downsizing, or simply have too many. Filter your search to "Free" and search for terms like "plants," "cuttings," or "garden." Be sure to check frequently and respond quickly, as free items tend to go fast. Also, join local plant and gardening Facebook groups where members often offer free plants before listing them publicly.
5. Craigslist Free Section
Similar to Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist has a dedicated free section where people list items they're giving away. Check regularly for plant listings, especially during spring and fall when people are reorganizing their gardens. You might find anything from houseplants to outdoor perennials, garden supplies, or even soil – all for free!
6. Seed Libraries
Many public libraries now offer "seed libraries" where you can borrow seeds for free. The concept is simple: borrow seeds, grow them, and then return some seeds from your harvest. This sustainable system gives you access to a variety of plants while contributing to local biodiversity. Check with your local library to see if they offer this service, or use the Seed Library Social Network to find one near you.
7. Garden Club Divisions
Local garden clubs often divide perennials and share the extras with members. Many perennial plants need division every few years to stay healthy, creating an abundance of new plants. Join a local garden club (membership fees are typically very affordable) and you'll likely receive free plants throughout the year. Plus, you'll gain valuable gardening knowledge and make connections with experienced gardeners.
Here are some resources to help you get started:
- National Garden Clubs Directory - Find a local garden club near you
- Better Homes & Gardens Guide to Dividing Perennials - Learn which plants need division and when
- University of Minnesota Extension - Comprehensive guide on dividing perennial plants
- Royal Horticultural Society - Step-by-step instructions for dividing different types of perennials
8. Nextdoor App
The Nextdoor app connects you with people in your immediate neighborhood, making it an excellent resource for finding free plants nearby. Many neighbors are happy to share plant divisions, extra seedlings, or cuttings. Simply post what you're looking for or browse the "Free" section. Since these connections are hyper-local, you won't have to travel far to pick up your new green friends.
Find the app on iOS, and android.
9. Regrow Kitchen Scraps
Many common vegetables and herbs can be regrown from kitchen scraps. Green onions, lettuce, celery, basil, and many herbs will regrow from cuttings placed in water. Once they develop roots, transfer them to soil. You're not just getting free plants – you're reducing food waste too! This method works year-round and is perfect for apartment dwellers with limited space.
Have fun regrowing kitchen scraps! Here are a few popular guides on the web:
- Rural Sprout - Complete guide to regrowing 20 vegetables from scraps
- Gardening Know How - Detailed instructions for growing food from vegetable scraps with kids
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The Old Farmer's Almanac - Tips for regrowing vegetables from kitchen scraps
10. Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation frequently offers free trees when you become a member. Membership costs around $10-25 per year, but you'll receive 10 free trees appropriate for your region, making it an excellent value. They also run special promotions throughout the year where you can get free trees or heavily discounted plants. This is particularly valuable if you're looking to add trees or shrubs to your landscape.
11. Seed Saver Exchanges
Seed saving organizations facilitate the exchange of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds. Seed Savers Exchange is one of the largest, but there are many local and regional groups as well. While some require membership, many have community seed sharing programs that are free to participate in. These exchanges help preserve biodiversity while giving you access to unique varieties not found in commercial nurseries.
12. Plant Propagation
One of the easiest ways to get free plants is to propagate from existing ones. Many houseplants can be propagated from stem cuttings placed in water or soil. Succulents can be grown from single leaves. Outdoor perennials can often be divided. If you have friends or family with plants, ask if you can take a cutting – most plant enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and greenery.
Here are popular plant propagation guides:
- The Spruce - Complete guide to taking plant cuttings
- Homes to Love - 5 easy plant propagation methods explained
- Savvy Gardening - Propagating plants and herbs: The ultimate guides
- Ohio Tropics - How to propagate pothos in water (one of the easiest plants)
- RealSimple - Step-by-step guide to propagating succulents from leaves
13. OfferUp
This marketplace app often have free sections where people list plants they no longer want or need. Set up alerts for terms like "plants," "garden," and "cuttings" to be notified when new listings appear. Like other free marketplaces, respond quickly and be prepared to pick up promptly to secure your free plants.
14. Ask for Plant Divisions
Don't be afraid to ask neighbors, friends, family members or your favourite offices with nice gardens if they're planning to divide their perennials. Many gardeners have to thin out plants like hostas, daylilies, irises, and other spreading perennials regularly. Most are happy to share rather than composting the extras. This approach works best in spring or fall when division typically occurs.
15. Native Plant Society Giveaways
Local chapters of native plant societies often hold plant giveaways or very inexpensive sales to promote the use of native species. These plants are particularly valuable as they're adapted to your local climate and provide essential habitat for wildlife. Check your state's native plant society website for upcoming events and giveaways.
16. Garden Center End-of-Season Clearance
While not entirely free, many garden centers give away or drastically discount leftover plants at the end of the growing season. Visit in late fall and you might find plants marked down by 90% or more, or even being given away rather than overwintered. These plants may look a bit sad but can often be nursed back to health with proper care.
17. Forest Service Seedling Programs
The US Forest Service and many state forestry departments offer free tree seedlings to landowners for conservation purposes. Requirements vary by state, but many programs have minimal or no cost. These programs focus on native tree species that support local ecosystems and can help with erosion control, wildlife habitat, and improving property value.
18. Volunteer at Botanical Gardens
Many botanical gardens and conservation organizations reward volunteers with free plants. By donating your time to help with maintenance, educational programs, or special events, you may receive plant divisions, seeds, or cuttings. This approach also provides valuable learning opportunities and connections with expert gardeners.
19. Instagram Plant Giveaways
Plant influencers and nurseries frequently hold giveaways on Instagram. Follow popular plant accounts and hashtags like #plantgiveaway, #freeplants, and #plantcontest. These giveaways typically require actions like following accounts, tagging friends, or sharing posts – a small effort for potentially valuable plants delivered right to your door.
20. Start Your Own Plant Business
Turn your plant hobby into a side hustle! Start by propagating the plants you already have, exchange them for new varieties, and gradually build your collection. You can sell excess plants online through marketplaces or even create your own Shopify store (starting at $39 per month). This approach not only gives you free plants but could develop into a profitable business venture that aligns perfectly with Savings Grove's "make more money" philosophy.
Final Words
Building a beautiful garden doesn't have to drain your bank account. With these 20 methods to acquire free plants, you can create a thriving indoor or outdoor garden while adhering to the smart spending principles that Savings Grove advocates. Remember that patience is key – building a collection takes time, but the satisfaction of growing a garden for free makes the journey even more rewarding. Happy plant hunting!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Free Plants
What are the easiest plants to propagate for free?
The easiest plants to propagate for beginners include pothos, spider plants, succulents, snake plants, and herbs like mint and basil. These plants readily grow from cuttings placed in water or directly in soil. Pothos and spider plants will grow roots in water within 1-2 weeks, while succulents can grow from a single leaf placed on soil.
When is the best time to look for free plants?
Spring and fall are the best times to find free plants. Spring (April-June) is when many gardeners divide perennials and have excess seedlings. Fall (September-October) is when people often give away plants before winter or when moving. Additionally, the end of growing seasons sees many garden centers heavily discounting or giving away unsold inventory.
Are free plants healthy or do they often have problems?
Free plants can be perfectly healthy, especially those shared by experienced gardeners. However, always inspect for pests or diseases before bringing them home. Look for discolored leaves, spots, webbing, or tiny insects. It's wise to quarantine new plants for 1-2 weeks away from your existing collection. Most issues can be treated, and the minor risk is often worth the reward of free plants.
How can I ensure my propagated plants grow successfully?
To ensure successful propagation: 1) Use clean, sharp tools to take cuttings to prevent disease, 2) Choose healthy parent plants with new growth, 3) Use appropriate growing medium (water or well-draining soil), 4) Maintain consistent moisture and humidity, 5) Place in indirect light rather than harsh direct sun, and 6) Be patient - some plants root in days while others take weeks or months.
Is it legal to collect plant cuttings from public parks or gardens?
Generally, it's not legal to take cuttings or collect plants from public parks, botanical gardens, or protected natural areas without permission. This can damage ecosystems and may be considered theft of public property. Always ask for permission before taking any plant material, or stick to legitimate sources like plant swaps, community giveaways, or propagating from plants you already own.
