Over the last few decades, native plants have experienced an increase in popularity. Some native species have even become common to find in nurseries. One annual event, however, will have one of the largest selections of native plants available for purchase in the north central Texas area: Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary’s 28th Annual Spring Plant Sale. This fundraising event will be held on April 22 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) and April 23 (1-5 p.m.). A Heard Museum Members-Only Pre-Sale will be offered on April 21 (4-7 p.m.; memberships will be available for purchase).
Over a hundred species will be available for purchase, including trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, ornamental grasses and wildflowers. All of the plant selections will be suitable for the soils and climate of the north central Texas area. Each plant will be accompanied with information regarding the plant’s suitability for sun or shade, drainage and other requirements. Many of the plants will not only provide outstanding beauty, but will also add life to the garden by attracting wildlife such as butterflies and hummingbirds. Native plants can also be very attractive, low in maintenance, pest resistant and drought tolerant (once established).
Throughout the weekend, members of the Blackland Prairie Master Naturalists and Collin County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Texas will also be available to help visitors with plant selections and to answer questions about the plants and their use in landscaping. Volunteers will also be available to help you load your purchases. On April 22 from 10 a.m. to noon, Howard Garrett, one of the leaders in the research, education and promotion of natural organic gardening will be onsite to answer questions and sign copies of the recently-released, updated version of his book, The Organic Manual. Refreshments and books on sustainable gardening techniques will also be available for purchase.
This event also coincides with Earth Day, a time set aside in the United States to reflect upon the well-being of the planet Earth. Stocking your yard with native plants that promote the health of local wildlife and conserve water is a great way to celebrate!
If you would like to get a head start on planning your purchases, a “Meet the Plants” talk will be offered on April 15 at 9:30 a.m. This talk will be included in general admission and free for Heard Museum Members. Participants should even have an opportunity to ask follow-up questions.
Admission to the plant sale and parking is free. All purchases will be tax-free and the plant sale will support the operations of Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing nature and people together. The Heard is located at 1 Nature Place, McKinney, Texas (one mile east of TX-5/Greenville Drive on Country Club Road). For additional information, visit www.heardmuseum.org.