Plant Donation Program · Melbourne

A second life for useful plants.

Plants are living things, not waste. Where suitable, donated or rescued plants can be redirected into ecological gardens, community projects, holding beds or future habitat work.

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Plant Donation Program

Why plant donation matters

Gardens are constantly changing. Plants are lifted, thinned, divided, outgrown or removed before they have reached the end of their useful life.

Our plant donation program exists to reduce waste and help suitable plants find a better next use — especially where they can support habitat, soil cover, productive gardening or future ecological projects.

Not every plant will be accepted. We prioritise healthy, manageable, climate-resilient and ecologically useful material.

Plants that may be suitable

  • Healthy native or indigenous species in pots or able to be lifted safely.
  • Divisions of grasses, strappy plants, groundcovers, herbs and useful perennials.
  • Interesting garden plants with cultural, productive or ornamental value.
  • Pots, vessels and garden objects that fit the Heirloom ethos of repair and reuse.

Plants we may decline

  • Declared environmental weeds or plants likely to spread into bushland.
  • Diseased, pest-ridden or badly root-bound stock.
  • Plants that are unsafe, invasive, unsuitable for Melbourne gardens or impractical to collect.
  • Large plants requiring machinery unless separately arranged.

Common questions

Question

Can I donate plants from my garden?

Yes, where they are suitable. Send photos, species names if known, pot sizes or access notes, and the suburb.

Question

Do you collect donated plants?

Sometimes. Collection depends on location, plant suitability, timing and whether it aligns with current garden projects.

Question

Will donated plants be used in client gardens?

Only if appropriate. Some plants may be used in studio displays, holding areas, community projects, ecological trials or future installations.

Related pages

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Garden Design

Naturalistic and ecological garden design for Melbourne homes.

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Ecological Garden Design

Native, indigenous and habitat-rich gardens connected to place.

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Garden Installation

Soil, planting, stone, paths, habitat and establishment care.

Gardener & Son · Mont Albert and Hawthorn studios · Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country.