Local Resources

Explore Philly Parks — locate and find out more about parks in your neighborhood

Fairmount Park Organic Recycling Center— location and contact information; great place to get compost and mulch 

Greenfest Philly — the largest environmental festival in Philly

Green Philly— a community-focused media resource that connects people to sustainable solutions

Jewish Farm School— renewing connection to land, food, spirit, and communal celebration; rooted in Jewish values

Penn State Extension in Philly— workshops, courses, articles and more focused on agriculture, gardening, health, and related environmental concerns 

Philadelphia Orchard Project— planting and supporting community orchards in the city of Philadelphia

Philly Parks & Rec— homebase for accessing services and things to do in Philly public spaces

Urban Tree Connection — community-based organization improving food and land systems through community leadership development and land based strategies in West Philadelphia

Wild Foodies of Philly — educating the public on the many uses of wild plants and animals for food, fiber, and medicine; hosts events throughout the year 

 

Gardens, Arboretums, and Wildlife Centers

Awbury Arboretum— historic landscape and grounds in northwest Philadelphia free and open to the public; also offering a variety of classes and youth programs 

Bartram’s Garden— 45 acre historical landmark; array of projects including horticulture, land and river ecosystems, agriculture and food sovereignty; offering an abundance of programs and events

Chanticleer — a large, contemporary, colorful, romantic public garden within 30 minutes of Philadelphia; includes a variety of changing areas dedicated to seasonal plants 

Friends of the Wissahickon— nonprofit organization that works in partnership with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation to restore historical park structures, monitor watershed management issues,  restore trails, and more

John  Heinz National Wildlife Refuge — America’s First Urban Refuge established in 1972 for the purpose of preserving, restoring, and developing the natural area known as Tinicum Marsh; offering public education, access, observation

Morris Arboretum— historic garden and educational institution in northwest Philadelphia; promotes an understanding of the relationship between plants, people, and place through programs that integrate science, art, and the humanities

Mt. Cuba Center — botanical garden in Delaware with a focus on native plants

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education— urban environmental education center with 340 acres of fields, forests, ponds, and streams in northwest Philadelphia; offering include education, environmental art, stewardship, and wildlife rehabilitation

Winterthur— 1,000 acres in Delaware encompassing hills, streams, meadows, forests and gardens; focused on aesthetic appreciation and design