A celebration of roots, both botanical and communal, took center stage Saturday as the Gather and Grow community plant market brought together plant enthusiasts, local artisans and curious neighbors at Smith Mill Works in the River Arts District.
The market showcased more than 130 plant varieties alongside handcrafted goods from local makers, weaving together the region's deep affection for the natural world with the creative energy that has long defined Western North Carolina's cultural landscape.
Shoppers browsed rows of rare perennials, heirloom vegetables, native wildflowers and tropical houseplants as vendors offered everything from hand-thrown pottery to locally sourced garden tools. The converted mill space provided a unique atmosphere for the event, its character complementing the spirit of renewal that draws so many to gardening in the first place.
"'This is exactly the kind of gathering that reminds you why you live here,' said one attendee, carefully cradling a potted passionflower vine. 'You find something beautiful for your home and you meet the person who grew it.'"
Organizers said the event was designed to be more than a marketplace — it was intended as a platform for fostering connection between growers, makers and the broader Asheville community.
Vendors reported steady foot traffic throughout the day, with several selling out of some sought-after native plants before noon.
The plant market reflects a growing regional trend toward community-centered commerce that prioritizes local producers and sustainable practices. Events like Gather and Grow have become touchstones for some residents seeking an alternative to large retail chains and a more personal connection to where their plants, food and handmade goods originate.
Smith Mill Works, a multi-use creative campus along the French Broad River, has emerged as a venue for artisan markets and community gatherings.