AKRON, Ohio - Downtown Akron Partnership is asking local businesses to help bring more vibrancy to the downtown area by adopting a planter.

Last year, more than 25 businesses adopted one or more of the large flower holders around downtown Akron, and filled them with colorful foliage.

The beauty of the Adopt-a-Plant program is tht busy organizations that don't have time for upkeep are covered. Once the pots are planted, DAP ambassadors water and fertilize the planters, and keep them beautiful through the growing season. DAP also reimburses businesses $25 per planter for the plants.

Organizations like the Akron-Summit County Public Library at 60 S. High St. don't have to worry about upkeep. Downtown Akron Partnership ambassadors water and fertilize the planters during the growing season.

The planters will be prepped and ready for new plantings by the end of May. Adopted planters get a personalized garden stake with the name of the organization.

Application deadline is April 25. To apply, call Keep Akron Beautiful at 330-374-7618 or send an email. Once applicants are selected, details will be announced for a kickoff luncheon to provide participating businesses with tips on plant selection and arrangement.

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