The Habitat Project, an Annual Giveaway!

Applications are closed for 2026

Blue Stem Natives is giving away $525 or more in native plants to one non-profit organization this fall. The selected organization will also receive an in-person site consult (a $400 value)** along with recommendations for choosing the right native species for their site and goals.

In 2025, Blue Stem Natives donated $525 in plants to fund this giveaway. In 2026, we will match that, and we're also opening it up to retail customers who want to help grow the total. Want to donate a plant or two? You can do so here (and thank you). Alternatively, if we receive enough plant donations we will open this giveaway up to two recipients.

**Consults will be held via Zoom if the project site is too far from Norwell.

Timing

Applications will be accepted mid July 16, 2026 through mid August 16, 2026. Winner will be announced on September 1, 2026. If your organization is selected, plants will need to be picked up within two weeks of September 1, 2026.

Who Can Apply?

✅ Non-profit organizations, schools, libraries, community groups, municipalities, and similar organizations.

What Are We Looking For?

We use a rubric to assess applications, based on the following criteria:

Community Impact - Does the project educate the public, engage the community, and/or expand access to native plants and habitat?
Site Suitability - Is there a clear, realistic maintenance plan? Is the site free of invasive plants (or is there a solid plan to handle them)? Is it easily accessible for upkeep and visits?
Project Goal & Innovation - Does the project support pollinators, remediation, or ecological restoration? Is it creative or innovative?

The Details

Plants must be picked up at our location; we do not ship.
We can't provide planting or upkeep services, but we're happy to advise on site prep and planting.
Plants will be provided as one-quart pots, landscape plugs, or a mix of both, based on the project's needs. Plants larger than these sizes are not included.
No purchase necessary to apply.
Plants will not be replaced due to loss and cannot be returned for cash or credit.

Thanks to all who submitted applications for the Habitat Project in 2025. Want to see who received last year's grant? Visit Eastie Farm on Instagram here.