Spring is definitely here. You can tell by the number of plant sale signs popping up faster than mushrooms around St. Albert roads, parking lots, schools, churches and community centres.
This torrent of horticultural entrepreneurialism takes place every spring. It’s almost as predictable as tulips blooming after daffodils pop their heads through the snow.
Plant sales are a way for garden societies and clubs to make extra money. And for gardeners searching for a few blushing beauties at a moderate cost, it’s a great place to discover new treasures.
Among the many plant sales around town, one stands out — the traditional St. Albert & District Garden Club Annual Plant Sale and Silent Auction coming Tuesday, May 17 at Sir George Simpson School.
It is the club’s primary fundraiser and goes to support the annual flower and garden show in August, says vice-president June Hancock.
“When people come to buy the plants, it’s often their first introduction to the club and we like to use it to encourage membership,” she adds.
All donated items come from area greenhouses, local businesses or gardeners eager to share extra plants. Many of the items range from grocery gift cards, gift bags and tools to statuary, feeders and pots.
Of course, there is always a wide assortment of bedding plants, hanging baskets and perennials such as daylilies, hostas, dahlias and roses.
In celebration of St. Albert’s 150th anniversary, club president Derrick Harrison has been growing more than 150 heritage tomato plants in his basement.
“They are going to be a big feature. They’re the things people want to get. Heritage is new. It’s become popular again even though it’s old,” says treasurer Lucy Krisco.
Krisco adds that while many of the plants go for good prices, some specialty plants have in past years prompted bidding wars. “I hope we have a good day and a good turnout.”
Anyone wishing to donate an item to the silent auction is requested to contact Krisco at 780-458-7219 before Monday. If gardeners would like to donate extra plants, they can bring them down to Sir George Simpson on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. The plant sale and auction starts at 7 p.m.
For more information, visit www.stalbertgardenclub.info.
