Downtown Native Plants & Wellness Initiative
Connecting Downtown Atlanta through nature, community, and leadership.
Downtown Atlanta is creating a network of native plant pocket gardens that transform urban spaces into living sanctuaries. Each garden serves as a pollinator habitat and community gathering space, connecting people with nature while strengthening our downtown ecosystem. Join us in reimagining how urban spaces can meaningfully reconnect with nature.
Why Native Plants Matter
Native plants are powerful tools for urban transformation:
- Support Wildlife: Even small urban native gardens effectively support crucial pollinators needed for ecosystem health
- Cost-Effective: Reduce maintenance costs by up to 75% compared to conventional landscapes—no irrigation systems or chemicals required
- Community Impact: Create beautiful gathering spaces that boost property values and improve mental wellbeing
- Environmental Health: Improve air quality and contribute to resilient urban ecosystems
Studies show insect populations have declined 45% in the past 4 decades, but native gardens provide essential urban habitat.
Benefits for Downtown
Beyond creating more attractive spaces, the Native Plants & Wellness Initiative enhances
social cohesion and community pride by building beautiful environments for all to enjoy.
Climate & Ecosystems
Enhances biodiversity and contributes to resilient ecosystems by maintaining soil and water health
Health Impact
Improves air quality and reduces stress through biophilia — our innate human connection to nature
Community Engagement
Creates opportunities for community leaders and residents to come together through volunteer planting and maintenance
Education & Awareness
Raises environmental awareness and engages the public in sustainable and ecological education
Our Vision
We're creating a journey to wellness through Downtown Atlanta, linking native plant gardens into a dynamic pathway. Each garden serves as a living sanctuary where people gather and connect with nature in our urban core. As we grow this network, a new green corridor will emerge that connects our communities through environmental stewardship.
CURRENT COVERAGE
~ 2.5 ACRES
Approximately 2-3 acres of native plant gardens are
already established across Downtown Atlanta.
2030 VISION
15 ACRES
Expand to 15 acres through pocket gardens at 100+ Downtown properties.
Even a planter makes a difference in transforming our urban ecosystem.
With 10-20% of Downtown properties participating, we can achieve 6x growth and build the momentum needed for lasting environmental impact.
Join the Movement
Whether you are a property owner, stakeholder, or community member, below are some key ways to get involved in this initiative.
Transform Your Space
- Add a pocket garden to your property's green space
- Convert existing planters with native plants
- Receive support from our team
Adopt-a-Planter Program
- Choose from curated planters from local vendors for cohesive look (multiple sizes available)
- Full-service installation and plant selection support available
- Community steward support for maintenance
- Flexible pricing options to fit your budget
Get Involved
- Become a Sponsor: Multiple partnership levels are available to fund garden installations, educational programming, and community engagement events
- Volunteer for community planting days
- Become a community steward
- Host educational programming
- Sponsor garden sites for underserved locations
Want to plant your own
Georgia native garden?
Check out our free resource guide to get started.