Stone Mountain Propagation Project
A Unique Community-Supported Propagation Center
The Stone Mountain Propagation Project (SMPP) is maintained and operated by GNPS within Stone Mountain Park. SMPP was established in 2007 as an adjunct to the GNPS restoration projects. A dependable source of native plants has been developed and maintained through weekly two-hour workdays. Each year, more than hundred unique volunteers give nearly 1,500 hours of time to support this operation. Volunteers have the opportunity to learn about native plants, propagation techniques and land restoration while enjoying the company of like-minded peers and performing a priceless community service.
Nursery manager, Kelley Hanada, oversees the operation and coordinates the work of dozens of volunteers. Periodically, workshops are held at SMPP or at the Stone Mountain Memorial Association’s facilities on various propagation techniques.
How to Volunteer
Volunteering at SMPP gives all an opportunity to learn about native plants through hands-on experience, while actively supporting GNPS projects, with the added bonus of taking home excess plant material. Volunteers also help improve and maintain the Cox Nature Garden and other areas of the park. Volunteer work days occur weekly, alternating between Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
We ask that all volunteers join our email list in order to receive the most up-to-date information. To subscribe the email list, follow these steps:
For GNPS members:
- Log in to your GNPS member account.
- From the menu on the left, choose Address and Account Preferences.
- Scroll down to the Preferences section and choose “Yes” under Stone Mountain Propagation Project List.
For all others, click here to submit your name and contact information. We highly encourage volunteers to become GNPS members. Click here to learn more about membership.
How to Order Plants for your Project
SMPP offers wholesale pricing on a selection of native plants for community organizations, schools, and public entities. Generally we provide plants for conservation projects such as restoration sites, education gardens, community gardens, or plant sales. While SMPP has hosted retail sales in the past, our focus has shifted to special orders. If you are in need of Piedmont natives for your project, please send an inquiry to SMPP_Admin@gnps.org. Our nursery manager will provide a current availability list for you to review and submit an order. For a general idea of species selection, check out our pollinator plant list.
Information Flyer & Rack Card:
Driving Directions to SMPP
Our plant propagation area occupies the former “Wildlife Trails” in Stone Mountain Park, which is not shown on present park maps. Entering the West Gate (thru the village of Stone Mountain): Turn left and go 0.2 miles. Turn left into the “Walking Trails” Parking lot. Our gate is straight ahead at the cabin.
Entering the East Gate off of Stone Mountain Hwy (Hwy 78): Stay to the right at the Y-intersection and proceed about a mile to the “Walking Trails” parking lot on your right. If you click the pointer, a menu will open that provides a driving directions link. If you want you can also plug in these coordinates in your GPS: 33.813,-84.159
You can view a Google Map of the area here.
Updates & News
SMPP February Report
SMPP has started over 30 different plants from seed from perennials, shrubs, trees and vines. The majority are in the hoop greenhouse. Though the outside nursery stock has benefitted from the regular rainfall during December and January, the cloudy, cool weather has...
