Our organization “adopted a spot” from the town, located at the triangle at the intersection of Clinton Roadand Warwick Turnpike, in late spring of 2007.  Over the months that followed, the plot was transformed into a Native Medicinal Plant sanctuary – free of fertilizers and pest controls.

Several beds have been shaped and planted.  The beds are marked by hand made tiles describing the species and common medicinal uses for each plant.  A new parking area is in place and a beautiful wood sign is up by the maple tree to welcome visitors.  A local carpenter built and donated a beautiful bench for visitors to rest on. Click here for a map of the garden and it's plantings was recently created by Doug Herdt.

Our project leader is Master Herbalist and author, Robin Rose Bennett, who works hard to make sure that each endangered, native plant is tended for.  Our partenership with Robin & Wise Woman Healing Ways has enabled us to maintain this property as an educational garden.  Robin gives tours and talks at the Native Medicinal Garden to help residents better understand and apply the therapeutic & healing benefits of these plants and trees.

The early development of the project was challenging and exciting!  The reality of transforming the neglected triangle into a fertile, thriving garden began in earnest.  Progress began slowly, but with a lot of dedication and effort from SWM members the Garden began to take shape.  During the overhaul we discovered many wonderful medicinal plants already in residence, including mugwart & milk weed.  We were also able to secure a $500 grant from the United Plant Savers to purchase our first plants with.

As this project continues over the next several years we will help the Garden become sustainable by implementing and utilizing permaculture and water holding techniques.  The surrounding sides and bottom area of the triangle will be filled with flowers for residents to enjoy as they drive by.

To find out what is new, to sign up and volunteer to help water & weed the Garden, or to see when planting dates & talks are – visit the Medicinal Garden Message Board.

For more information or specific questions about the Native Medicinal Garden please contact Robin Rose Bennett at robin@robinrosebennett.com or 973-728-5878. Read an article Robin wrote about the Native Medicinal Garden.