What you need to know about Mother's Day native plant sale
The Lake County Forest Preserves invites gardeners near and far to its annual Native Plant Sale over Mother's Day weekend at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville. A large variety of native wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, vines and trees will be available for purchase on Saturday, May 11, from 9 am to 3 pm, and Sunday, May 12, 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 local diversity by providing food and homes to native birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Because of their 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 Forest Preserve's environmental education programs and events. This year's native plant list includes a full selection of 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 11, compost bins and rain barrels will be available for purchase through the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) at 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 11. Quantities are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis.