Lake County Forest Preserves Hosts Annual Native Plant Sale Over Mother's Day Weekend
The Lake County Forest Preserves invites gardeners near and far to its annual Native Plant Sale over Mother's Day weekend at Independence Grove in Libertyville. A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, vines and trees will be available for purchase on Saturday, May 12, from 9 am to 3 pm, and Sunday, May 13, from 10 am to 2 pm. Rain barrels and compost bins will be available Saturday only, while supplies last.
Native plants naturally thrive in Lake County's soil and weather, requiring less time, effort and expense to maintain. They also play a critical role in increasing biodiversity--the variety of species living in a particular habitat. These indigenous plants help maintain local diversity by providing food and homes to native birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Because of the variety, low maintenance, and environmental benefits, native plants have become increasingly popular among professional landscapers and gardeners in recent years.
"As part of our 100-Year Vision and Strategic Plan, we want to engage local residents as conservation partners to enhance the landscape beyond forest preserve boundaries," said Nan Buckardt, director of education for the Lake County Forest Preserves. "Gardens with native plants provide an important bridge between residential and nearby natural areas. What you do on your own property can make a big difference."
Held annually on Mother's Day weekend, the Native Plant Sale is a fundraiser benefiting the Forest Preserves' environmental education programs and events. This year's native plant list includes a full selection of unique flowers, ferns and grasses.
Independence Grove is located in Libertyville on Buckley Road (Route 137) east of Milwaukee Avenue (Route 21) and west of I-94. Follow signs to the North Bay Pavilion for the sale. Patrons of the Native Plant Sale are reminded that while service animals are welcome at Independence Grove, dogs, horses and other pets are not allowed.
RAIN BARRELS AND COMPOST BINS
On Saturday, May 12, compost bins and rain barrels will be available for purchase through the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) in the North Bay Pavilion. Using rain barrels, practicing backyard composting and planting native species are all sustainable, environmentally sound practices that will not only be good for your pocketbook, but for your home and community. Barrels and bins will be sold only on Saturday, May 12. Quantities are limited; first-come, first-served.
About the Lake County Forest Preserve District
As principal guardian of Lake County's open space and natural areas since 1958, the District manages nearly 31,000 acres of land and offers innovative educational, recreational and cultural opportunities for all people. Visitors of all ages can enjoy over 203 miles of trails for a variety of outdoor recreation uses, ponds and lakes for fishing, public golf courses, historical and cultural venues, public access to Lake Michigan and the Fox River, and award-winning nature and history education programs and events. Facilities of special interest include Independence Grove in Libertyville, Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods, the Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville, and ThunderHawk Golf Club in Beach Park.
Additional Information: www.LCFPD.org
For a program calendar or additional information about the Lake County Forest Preserves, visit LCFPD.org or call 847-367-6640 and request a free copy of the Horizons quarterly newsletter.