Council is currently giving out 10 Plant Libraries, helping residents share plants, build gardening skills, and strengthen local connections. Plant Libraries encourage reuse, reduce waste, and support greener neighbourhoods.
A Plant Library works like a book library - community members can borrow, swap, propagate, and return plants, seeds, or cuttings, keeping plants and knowledge circulating locally.
Plant Libraries help to:
They are community‑led and can be hosted by residents, community groups, schools, or organisations.
Swapping weeds is not encouraged. Please check the weed identification before adding plants and only share species that are safe and appropriate.
Check the weed identifications(PDF, 3MB)
A Plant Library is a shared space where the community can take, leave and care for plants. It supports sharing, learning and connection while encouraging sustainable gardening practices.
Hosts are asked to support basic upkeep of the library, including occasional watering, keeping the space tidy, and checking that plants are healthy and appropriate. Hosts also help ensure exchanges run smoothly and the library remains welcoming to the community.
Yes. The Plant Library must be accessible to the public and foster a sense of community connection. Locations that are not accessible to the general public will not be considered.
At this stage, the program is focusing on private locations with a dedicated custodian. Having a regular host helps minimise vandalism and misuse and reduces the need for ongoing council maintenance.
The following locations are not suitable for a Plant Library:
Fully public sites, such as parks, can be challenging to manage due to maintenance requirements and the risk of vandalism. For this reason, they are not currently prioritised.
Yes. Community gardens are suitable locations, provided the library is publicly accessible and there is a clear custodian to support ongoing care and oversight.
Plants, cuttings, seeds and other garden‑related items may be shared, provided they are clean, healthy and free to take.
Yes. Weeds, invasive or prohibited plant species must not be swapped or shared. Please refer to the weed identification guide for guidance on identifying what is considered a weed before adding plants to the library.
Check out the weed identification guide(PDF, 3MB)
Plant Libraries that are vandalised, damaged or misused will not be replaced, which is why suitable locations and local custodianship are essential.
Please complete the below Expression of interest form so we can assess suitability.
PLEASE BE AWARE: Each library varies in size and shape due to their upcycling nature. If selected, you can choose your top three preferred libraries.
Please submit your application by Friday 17 April. Applications received after 11.59pm will not be accepted.
Submit your Interest