Grow with it - sunflowers an neeps

 Grow with it - sunflowers an neeps,

On a sunny spring day here at Polmont community hub (PCHub) we gathered with anticipation for a new first of event at ourl hub. The cheerful atmosphere was buzzing with laughter and the sweet scent of blooming flowers as Forth Environmental Link (FEL) hosted a delightful Easter celebration. It was a day full of joy, learning, and a wonderful opportunity to kick off the “Grow With It” campaign in collaboration with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).




As families arrived, they were greeted by the vibrant sight of saplings in tubs of various plants and foods, and also - sunflowers, their golden petals still small but about to grow brightly under the warm sun. The Braes Friendly Growers (BFGs) had set up a charming plant sale featuring an array of edible plants, encouraging everyone to take a step towards growing their own food. Guests delighted in the idea that they could cultivate their very own treats right at home, with the exception of the beloved forget-me-nots, which sold out quickly! 



People chatted excitedly about growing this into a sunflower growing competition, the convener of the local community council grasped this idea and instantly organized a competition to enter with Polmont Community Council. Then grew a palpable sense of community spirit as neighbors encouraged each other to make their gardens, balconies, and windowsills come alive with colorful blooms, all while supporting the vital pollinators that help our planet thrive. 




Even the littlest green thumbs have now joined in the fun, planting sunflower seeds that would bloom into towering giants, much to the joy of everyone involved. The BFGs welcome everyone with open arms, they gather every Tuesday morning at the hub to lend a helping hand and share gardening tips. Its a safe space where young and old come together, united by a passion for growing and nurturing the earth.



The spring event was a success, Though there were a few hiccups along the way—like a misadventure with turnip (our dreamed of suedes) seedlings that basked a bit too much in the sun, turns out these seedlings like it colder! (lesson learned for next year)the community hubs sustainability managers spirit remained high. Plans for our turnip growing competition are postponed not cancelled,

next years spring event is already in the planning it will be even better. The idea of carving massive turnips for all Hallows een (waur takin it back tae its scots roots) is still something to look forward to,this year but we shall need to buy the neeps, not grow them as we had hoped. Next year we anticipate a seed swap event that hopefully will spark even more magic into not only the gardens of Polmont. But the wider community




As the day wound down and the sun began to set, the laughter and camaraderie lingered in the air. People left not just with seedlings and smiles, but with a sense of belonging and purpose. They knew that by coming together, they were making a significant impact—one small patch of earth at a time. 


With every sunflower planted and every seed sown, the Polmont community was growing more than just food; they were growing biodiversity, supporting the pollinators, and strengthening the bonds that connected them all. It was a beautiful reminder that together, they could cultivate a brighter future for both their neighbourhood and the planet. our adventure of growing continues with you, dear reader, with hearts full of hope and gardens full of promise. 🌻✨

TBC




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