My field botany in Brooklyn, NY
4/18/17
Yesterday I was looking for a spot in Brooklyn to do some field botany. I got my tree, shrub and flower field identification guides and set out to find greenery in a concrete jungle. I didn’t find any abandoned lots with sprawling weeds, but I did find some minimally kempt small lots in front of apartment buildings.
In broad daylight, when most people would be working on a Monday afternoon, I still got a bunch of weird glances and comments my way. People seemed to find it odd to find me scrutinizing small ‘weedy’ flowers, shrubs, and trees.
“That’s a cherry tree,” a helpful passerby volunteered.
“I need to identify the exact species,” I answered, smiling. According to my guide, it was indeed sweet cherry.
Luckily, no one told me to get off the property so I was able to take my time and finish my work. It was a wonderful time. It was healing. The plants like it when you pay attention to them, take notice and slow down to their rhythm. I can’t wait to have a plot of land of my own to grow medicinal herbs and even weeds in!
The Site may contain links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. We are highly selective with what products we recommend. Our affiliates include ShareASale and Banyan Botanicals.
