Bronx Green-Up, the community outreach program of The New York Botanical Garden, provides horticultural advice, technical assistance, and training to community gardens, school groups, and other organizations interested in improving urban neighborhoods in the Bronx through greening projects. At the heart of Bronx Green-Up are the
community gardens of the Bronx and a
compost education program.
Bronx Green-Up offers two
certificate programs as well as classes for community gardeners throughout the year. It also hosts a number of events such as the Harvest Festival, which brings community gardeners together to celebrate their bounty, share information, and learn from each other.
The Compost Project, offered in partnership with the New York City Department of Sanitation, promotes composting as an essential horticultural practice as well as a waste reduction strategy. Bronx Green-Up presents workshops and demonstrations at community gardens, public events, and the compost demonstration area at the Botanical Garden’s Home Gardening Center. A “Rotline” provides callers with advice and answers to compost questions.
In 2007 Bronx Green-Up conducted more than 500 workshops, events, and other activities, reaching nearly 5,000 people representing more than 80 gardens, greening groups, and community organizations. This was made possible with the help of volunteers who contributed a total of 1,000 hours.