Plant Sale Bonanza

Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: March 2025

Spring is the time to start refreshing our gardens and the devoted members of the Mountain Garden Club already have their shovels in the dirt preparing for their annual plant sale held this year on Saturday, May 24, from 9:00 A.M. until noon.

On this magical day in May, the Town Ball Field at the corner of Highway 64 E and Hickory Street in Highlands is transformed into a shining green sea of possibilities, covered with plants gleaned from some of the area’s most prolific gardens.

This botanical wonderland and gardener’s delight is the culmination of hours of hard work by garden club members who have been working cheerfully and tirelessly to gather plants from their gardens and the gardens of others who generously share their plants for this sale. These gardeners pay it forward by sharing the fruits of their labor with others.

This once-a-year opportunity allows everyone the chance to purchase plants grown by some of the most accomplished gardeners on the Plateau.  No big-box plants here, these have all been lovingly cultivated in native soil and are plants proven to thrive in our region so they will grow and thrive for years to come.

You will find plants of all kinds here, from those that attract pollinators such as bee balm, astilbe, and clematis, to the always popular hosta in its many varieties, cinnamon ferns and many other offerings, including dahlia bulbs. If you’ve admired a plant in any local garden, you’ll most likely be able to purchase it here.

It’s also the perfect chance to chat with Mountain Garden Club members and ask any questions you might have about your gardens or the plants you’re purchasing. These are serious gardeners so by all means, ask the experts.

Be prepared to arrive early, as the sale is extremely popular and long lines form quickly. Proceeds are used for scholarships for local students, maintenance of the Highlands School garden, the Historical Jail premises and the Eckerd Center Garden, as well as for other community projects.  It is a chance to beautify your garden while giving to a good cause.  Cash or check only, please.