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Columbia, S.C. Embraces Spring Plant Sales

People exploring a spring plant sale with various plants and flowers

News Summary

This weekend marks the start of spring plant sales in Columbia, S.C. Various exciting events are lined up including Historic Columbia’s Spring Plant Sale and Midlands Plant & Flower Festival. Despite the rush to plant, residents are reminded not to garden before Easter. Local communities can also benefit from free seeds available to Richland County households. Be ready for a vibrant gardening season ahead!

Columbia, S.C. Welcomes Spring Plant Sales

Get ready, plant lovers of Columbia, because spring plant sales are kicking off this weekend in the gorgeous Midlands of South Carolina! Yes, it’s that time of year when the thrill of planting meets the beauty of nature, so grab your gloves and green thumbs, because beautiful blooms and greens are almost here!

A Little Caution from the Old Wives

Before you dash to grab those seedlings, it’s wise to keep in mind an old wives’ tradition: hurry not to plant before Easter! This advice comes from the not-so-ancient history of unpredictable frosts or freezes that can sneak up on us. Records show that the average last frost date in the Midlands falls on April 11, and some years have seen frost even later, like the infamous May 8 in 1989! Meanwhile, the average last freeze is tracked to March 28, but if you think you’re safe, remember the late freeze recorded on April 24, 1986. So, while it’s encouraged to buy your plants now, just hold off until after Easter, which is on April 20, to put them in the ground.

Where to Get Your Greenery

There’s no shortage of options for you this weekend with several exciting plant sales lined up, each offering its unique flavor!

Historic Columbia’s Spring Plant Sale: This one kicks off on Thursday for members from 4 to 6 p.m. but then opens up to everyone on Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s held at the Hampton-Preston Mansion, 1615 Blanding St. Expect to find rare and historically propagated plants here. Perfect for those who love a piece of the past!
Midlands Plant & Flower Festival: Happening at the South Carolina State Farmers Market, this festival runs from Thursday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and ends on Sunday with hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expect a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plants, trees, and gardening accessories. Don’t forget to bring or rent a wagon or rolling cart to make hauling those plants easier!
Midlands Spring Native Plant Sale: On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., head over to Canoeing for Kids, 114 Riverchase Ct., Lexington. This sale focuses on budget-friendly plants native to South Carolina, making it a perfect option for eco-friendly gardening.
Spring Plant Sale: Earth Day Birthday: Also on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this event at the York County Material Recovery Facility, 1500 McFarland Rd., York, will not only offer plants but also expert advice on cultivating them. It’s all about learning while you plant!

Mark Your Calendars for More Gardening Fun!

The plant festivities don’t end here! Several upcoming events might be just what you need to sprout that gardening passion:

April 10: Home Gardening for Beginners at Sumter Main Library at 1 p.m.
April 12: Honey Bee Expo at Magnolia Park & Community Garden, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
April 19: Don’t miss the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Spring Plant Sale from 8 to 11 a.m.!

Free Seeds for Residents

For those who are itching to start their gardens now, Richland County residents can grab free vegetable, herb, and wildflower seeds! Up to four packets per household are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Richland County Administration Building or the Richland Library Eastover. It’s a fantastic way to get your garden growing without breaking the bank!

Join the Gardening Community

Lastly, don’t forget to connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Consider joining the WLTX Gandy’s Gardeners Facebook group for advice, tips, and community sharing. With so many resources and events designed to help you grow, this spring is shaping up to be remarkably green and vibrant!

So, gear up, Columbia! Spring has sprung, and it’s time to dig in!