WC Arboretum prepares spring plant sale
Plant lovers celebrating the return of sunny weather are invited to stop by the upcoming spring plant sale, organized by the Wood County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
This much-anticipated event is set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 15 in the gardens surrounding the historic 1869 Stinson House that serves as the cornerstone of the arboretum, 175 Governor Hogg Pkwy. in Quitman.
“As always, we’ll have Texas natives and pollinator plants,” said Lin Grado, garden manager. “But, our sale feature is oakleaf hydrangea.”
Two sizes of oakleaf hydrangea are to be featured: Lynn Lowery, a tall variety from Louisiana named after a famous Texas horticulturist; and Ruby Slippers, a popular mounding form that can fit in yards of all sizes.
“We think people will be very excited at what we have to offer at our sale,” Grado said.
The members-only presale opportunity is 4-6 p.m. April 14. People can join on-line or Friday at the sale.
Extra groupings of beautiful stock will be replenished before the actual sale kicks off Saturday.
Annual memberships start at $25, and members receive a discount on plant purchases.
The arboretum works with local growers to connect customers with hardy perennials and shrubs suited for East Texas.
Deanna Caldwell, Friends of the Arboretum president, said efforts are being made to keep prices low, in spite of increasing costs, and people with memberships can save at spring and fall sales.
Proceeds from the event support the care and upkeep of the arboretum, including the gardens and upkeep of the historic Stinson House.
The annual spring plant sale is one of many projects offered throughout the year at the arboretum, a 23-acre garden venue.
For more information about supporting the arboretum, visit www.woodcountyarbo.org or www.facebook.com/woodcountyarbo. Information is also available at 430-235-5461 or woodcountyarbo@gmail.com.
– by Jacque Hilburn-Simmons
