Thousands Adopt Geraniums in Bowling Green Park

Thousands of Lower Manhattan residents, workers and visitors showed up yesterday in Bowling Green Park to take home a free plant as the Alliance for Downtown New York held its annual Adopt A Geranium event—part of the organization’s Going Green Downtown initiative.

More than 4,000 geraniums were dug up and distributed to make room for tulips that will be planted in the park during the Downtown Alliance’s Fall Community Planting Day on Saturday, October 23.

Yesterday’s line around Bowling Green’s perimeter included office workers picking up multiple plants to share with colleagues, men who wanted a plant for their wives or girlfriends and a group of curious preschoolers accompanied by their teachers. Even Sad Panda—who often appears on the streets of Lower Manhattan— wanted to get in on the fun.

Special guests included Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, State Senator Daniel Squadron, City Council Member Margaret Chin, Battery Park City Authority Chairman William C. Thompson, Jr. and Madelyn Wils, Executive Vice President for Planning and Development of the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

What struck me in particular was the enthusiasm everyone had for the reusable, eco-friendly, tote bags that the Downtown Alliance supplied for carrying geraniums.  I heard several people mention what wonderful shopping bags they would make for trips to the market. We’re glad they’re keeping it green.

After receiving a geranium, participants could get their picture taken with the plant.  You can view photos of the event on the Downtown Alliance’s Flickr page. We will add more photos to the page throughout the week.  You can also check out a video of the event on YouTube.