Grow Plant Love

Fostering empathetic relationships with plants through art, science, and experiential learning to bridge plant awareness disparity and inspire the next generation of plant conservationists across the Global South.

About us
Our project recognizes that while environmental education often focuses on charismatic animals, plants - despite being the foundation of all ecosystems -receive far less attention and emotional connection. This "plant blindness" contributes to declining plant conservation awareness, particularly in regions with rich botanical diversity like Northeast India.

We believe that fostering genuine relationships with plants requires more than just scientific information. Our approach integrates feelings, observations, artistic expression, and experiential learning to encourage a sense of companionship with plants. By combining rigorous botanical knowledge with creative engagement, we aim to transform how young people perceive and connect with the plant world.

The goal is to bridge the gap in existing plant education resources by looking at not just "information" but also "feelings" and encouraging a sense of "companionship" with plants, ultimately contributing to plant conservation efforts in the Global South.

Workshop - Pakke Tiger Reserve

The first development workshop was held at Pakke Tiger Reserve (November 5-7, 2023), bringing together botanists, educators, and researchers to create foundational activities and approaches for the manual.

Participants: Anisha Mandal, Bibishananda Basu, Nandini Velho, Salil Subedi, Shradha Rathod, Trisha DS, Sanchaya Sharma

Key Activities:
- Silhouette drawing exercises during dusk, creating artistic interpretations of tree forms
- "Letting Loose" sessions to overcome creative barriers through pattern drawing and hand-switching techniques
- Speed drawing challenges with 30-second, 90-second, and 3-minute plant observation exercises
- Guided botanical walks with expert Bibishananda Basu, exploring species like the Chinese hat tree and Gnetum