New York's apartment-jungle crowd converges on Bryant Park's Fountain Terrace to trade monstera cuttings, propagated pothos, seeds and full-grown plants — a genuine barter economy with zero cash involved. You don't even need to bring anything; the swap is built for meeting plant-minded strangers as much as for the trades. If your windowsill is one pot short of complete, this is the cheapest fix in Midtown.
What to expect
Tables and blankets of labeled plants, cuttings and seed packets around the fountain at the park's Sixth Avenue end, with swappers comparing care notes and making trades through the afternoon. Selection is best early, and the crowd skews friendly and chatty — expect to leave with both plants and advice.
Good to know
- Take the B/D/F/M to 42nd St–Bryant Park; the Fountain Terrace faces Sixth Avenue
- Bringing plants, cuttings or seeds is encouraged but not required
- Free — no tickets or registration
- Come early for the best selection of trades
- Label your cuttings if you bring them; swappers appreciate care notes
- Pairs easily with Bryant Park's other free daytime activities
Common questions
Do I have to bring a plant to participate?
No — bringing plants or seeds is encouraged but not required; you're welcome to browse, learn and take part either way.
Where in Bryant Park is the swap?
On the Fountain Terrace at the park's Sixth Avenue end, next to the fountain.
What should I bring to trade?
Healthy cuttings, propagated starts, seeds or whole plants all work — labeled with the plant's name and basic care needs if possible.