Growing Together: MASS & Up2Us Volunteer Morning

On Monday, we were delighted to host a special volunteer session with Mansfield Autism Statewide Services (MASS).

With some very welcome rain pouring down outside, we stayed warm and dry under the shelter of the shed — the perfect setting for a productive morning of pricking out and potting up native seedlings into tubestock. There’s something incredibly satisfying about gently separating tiny seedlings and giving each one the space it needs to grow strong roots and thrive.

It was wonderful to see so many volunteers roll up their sleeves to help, alongside MASS students who brought enthusiasm and care to the task. The shed was filled with conversation and the quiet focus that comes with hands-on work. These sessions are always about more than just plants — they’re about connection, inclusion and building community.

Thanks to everyone involved, these native seedlings are now well on their way to becoming healthy tubestock plants ready for planting out into our landscapes. These locally grown native plants will be available for purchase through Up2Us in May/June this year, supporting biodiversity in gardens, farms and public spaces across our region.

A big thank you to our volunteers and to MASS for partnering with us. Together, we’re nurturing not just seedlings — but a stronger, more connected community. 🌱