Plant Something Day

Plant Something Day is celebrated annually on May 19, a day dedicated to encouraging individuals and communities to engage in planting activities, fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting environmental sustainability.​

History of Plant Something Day

Plant Something Day was established by the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH) in 2012 as a national event to encourage people to plant and appreciate plants. The inaugural celebration took place in 2013, aiming to increase awareness about the importance of plants and to involve people in gardening activities. By 2015, the observance had spread nationwide, with gardening clubs and societies in different states joining the initiative.

The holiday gained further momentum through partnerships with garden centers, greenhouses, and nurseries, creating more engaging activities for participants. In 2019, NICH incorporated digital tools to provide interactive experiences, including online webinars and virtual gardening tutorials, making the celebration more accessible to a broader audience.

Why is Plant Something Day important?

In an era where urbanization and deforestation are prevalent, Plant Something Day serves as a reminder of the vital role plants play in our ecosystem. Engaging in planting activities not only beautifies our surroundings but also contributes to improved air quality, supports biodiversity, and combats climate change. This day encourages individuals to take actionable steps towards environmental stewardship, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the natural world.​

Moreover, planting has therapeutic benefits, offering a sense of accomplishment and reducing stress. Whether it’s tending to a garden, nurturing a houseplant, or participating in community greening projects, these activities promote mental well-being and community cohesion. Plant Something Day inspires people to embrace these benefits, cultivating a culture that values and protects our green spaces.​

• Encourages environmental stewardship and awareness
• Promotes mental well-being through therapeutic gardening activities
• Supports biodiversity and combats climate change
• Fosters community engagement and cohesion
• Enhances the aesthetic and ecological value of our surroundings​

How to Celebrate Plant Something Day

Celebrating Plant Something Day can be as simple as planting a seed in a pot or as involved as organizing a community garden project. Individuals can start by selecting a plant that suits their environment and dedicating time to care for it, observing its growth as a reflection of their commitment to nature. For those with limited space, indoor plants or window boxes can bring greenery into the home.​

Communities can come together to transform vacant lots into green spaces, host plant swap events, or collaborate with local schools to educate children about the importance of plants. Sharing experiences and knowledge about planting can strengthen community bonds and inspire collective action towards a greener future.​

• Plant a tree, flower, or herb in your garden or home
• Participate in or organize a community planting event
• Attend workshops or webinars on sustainable gardening practices
• Share your planting journey on social media to inspire others
• Educate children about the importance of plants and involve them in planting activities​

Plant Something Day Dates Table