A conversation between Urban Roots and Sara-Jane Quechuck (Simple Leaf Design)
What is Urban Roots? What Makes You Unique?
“In 2021, Urban Roots was created by longtime locals (Canadian Valley Growers) as a way to bring BC grown plants and vegetables directly into communities throughout the Greater Vancouver area.”
“We came up with the unique concept of setting up seasonal pop-up shops in under-utilized lots around the city. Bringing greenery to otherwise empty spaces while creating a warm friendly atmosphere. And because we choose to employ passionate local staff, it really becomes a community space and a great shopping experience.”
“Plus buying grower direct, you get lower prices on our high-quality plant material all without leaving your neighbourhood. What could be better than buying local? It supports our economy and helps to reduce environmental impacts.”
What Can I Find at an Urban Roots Garden Market?
“Our convenient pop-up garden centers stock a wide range of plant materials and products for your gardening needs. In addition to being a proud, Proven Winners Certified Garden Center we also partner with other BC companies providing the best for you, including:”
- West Coast Seeds (microgreens, flowers, and lawn solution seeds)
- Sea Soil (organic soil products)
- Gaia Green (organic nutrients and fertilizers)
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“Additionally, this year we’ll be adding handcrafted, Indigenous-made, cedar baskets for your plants.”
What Else Makes UR Different?
“We care about helping others to grow their gardens while boosting community health through better food literacy, security, and sustainability. Urban Roots is excited for everyone to have access to the best gardening products and experiences possible. We truly care about our communities because we are part of them.”
“We also have the Urban Roots Giving Gardens Program that helps us to support the regional school and community garden programs in order to share the benefits of cultivation. We believe that the soil-to-plate experience is a way to boost physical and mental health and feed those in need while supporting and encouraging underserved populations. Last year we gifted $100,000 in donations to 30+ community gardens, kitchens, and schools in our vicinity, and this year we’ve grown to include more than 100.”
Where Can I Find a Shop?
“Markets are open from Monday-Sunday, 9 am-6 pm at the following locations:”
- Port Moody – 2421 Clarke St.
- Langley – 20090 91A Ave.
- Coquitlam – 1150 The High St.
- PNE – 2901 Hastings St.
- DT Vancouver – 1755 Cottrell St.
- Guildford – 1250 Guildford St.
- North Van – 502-536 East 3rd St.
- Kitsilano – 2966 West 4th Ave.
- Lansdowne – 5300 #3rd St.
- Kerrisdale – 2465 West 41st Ave.
- Main & 49th – 6495 Main St.
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Is There Anything Else that We Should Know about UR?
“Just that we’re very excited to kick off the gardening season with all of our garden markets opening in April, so please come out and see us. We can’t wait to make your gardening dreams come true.”
