Free native plants for residents

The City of Armadale is partnering with the Armadale Gosnells Landcare Group (AGLG) again this year to provide residents with free native seedlings for their gardens.

The giveaway event will return to the carpark at Rushton Park in Kelmscott on Sunday 6 May from 9am to noon, or until the stock of plants run out.

Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said last year the program was a huge success with residents from all over the City keen to take advantage of acquiring free plants for their gardens.

“Staff from the City, AGLG and other environmental groups will also be on hand to offer advice on what to plant where, the care and maintenance of natives and information on the most suitable plants for your area.

There will be a variety of seedlings available with 3,000 plants to be given away on the day. The native seedling species have been selected based on their long term growth potential and survival capacity on the variable soils of the City. These species will grow well, establish quickly, be water wise and attract birds.

“Planting natives not only reduces weed invasion into bushland and helps control soil erosion, but also provides an array of environmental benefits.

“The City is keen to assist with increasing flora diversity in our residential areas, providing habitat diversity as well as shade and shelter for birds, reptiles and small native mammals.

“Eligible ratepayers will receive a total of five plants for their property, and plants will be allocated on a first come, first served basis,” he said.

Residents are asked to bring their own bags/box to carry the seedlings in and must bring photo ID (driver’s license/passport) and current proof of residential address to obtain their free plants.