Barcelona’s markets will be giving away over 80,000 plants, with online purchasers receiving first choice over shoppers who go in person to establishments, from 28 April to 7 May.

We are talking about some thirty different species, including daisies, begonias, petunias, rosemary and thyme, which have been cultivated across the city but unable to be used for their original purpose owing to the current state-of-alert situation.

The aim now is to avoid the loss of these plants, hence their distribution among city residents as a way of help to make the city greener.

Meanwhile, 22 May is World Biodiversity Day. And as we’d like to celebrate the occasion seeing a Barcelona brimming with green balconies, we’re encouraging you to join in by sending us a photo of your home, all greened up, using the hashtag #plantamalbalco.

Reading guide

In addition, here’s a suggested selection of books on plants and allotments for the lockdown period for enticing spring into our homes. Click on any cover and you’ll be able to borrow your chosen book with your library card from the eBiblio Catalunya digital content platform.