April in the Garden

The Master Gardener’s Plant Sale will celebrate its fourth year on Saturday, April 6. This not to be missed sale happens at the Fairgrounds just down the road. The hours are 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. This will be my fourth year to participate, and every year it gets bigger and better.

The Master Gardeners will be selling all types of plants. Linda Landrum, of the Extension Service, shared with me that they will have a large variety of native plants, wild flowers, and plants that attract butterflies and humming birds. Their prices are always very reasonable. In addition, other venders will be offering all types of plants, herbs, garden equipment and crafts, plus more. Free soil testing is available. It is also a good time to meet the Master Gardeners and learn about their program and the Extension Service. Throughout the day, seminars will be offered on different subjects pertaining to the garden and horticulture.

The last weekend of the month, Washington Oaks State Gardens celebrates its Earth Day Festival. This festival is well worth the 40 minutes drive. If you have never visited the Gardens, this is an excellent time to do so. The rose garden is wonderful to the nose, with numerous varieties in bloom. Paths meander through the park, over streams to wonderfully relaxing nooks tucked away. Several small pools add to the charm. Many varieties of plants can be seen – such as the white Bird of Paradise Plant, Shell Gunger, huge Staghorns. The festival features plants for sale from the park and several orchid and bromeliad societies, food, crafts, and excellent entertainment. All this happens April 27th and 28th. Take I-95 to the Marineland Exit, to S.R. A1A. The park is 2 miles south of Marineland off S.R. A1A.

Don’t forget to celebrate Earth Day, which is April 22nd. Reduce, reuse, and recycle, mulch, compost and go native.

Next month: Creative uses for throwaways and cast-offs in the garden.