Penn State Master Gardeners of Berks County will hold their annual fall plant sale on Friday, September 14, from 12 noon to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, September 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The sale is held, rain or shine, at the Berks County Agricultural Center, County Welfare Road, Bern Township, near the fairgrounds.
“The ‘difference’ in our Plant Sale is personal attention and education,” according to Beth Finlay, Master Gardener Coordinator. Master Gardeners will be on hand to offer information on planting techniques, soil preparation, use of native plants in the landscape, and plant care. They are skilled at answering gardening and landscape questions, using the resources and expertise of the Penn State College of Agriculture.
Featured will be current research and recommendations for management of the Spotted Lanternfly. Master Gardeners will help shoppers select the most appropriate plants for their needs and locations. They are especially helpful in identifying suitable plants for problem sites and situations, where the most commonly used plants may not do well. They can guide design choices by pointing out compatible plants for pairings and groupings.
The sale will feature a large variety of perennials, native plants, and woody ornamentals, including flowering shrubs. A significant portion of the plant offerings are native plants that support honeybees and native pollinating insects. Information will be available on how to create and certify a home Pollinator-Friendly Garden.
“Fall is the ideal time for planting shrubs and perennials,” says Program Assistant Dee Dee Kerscher. “Let us help you fill in the gaps in your garden.” The sale will again offer garlic, organically grown here in Berks County and ready for fall planting. Master Gardeners will offer planting and care tips for first-time garlic growers.
Many of the plants for sale are found in the Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens at the entry to the Ag Center. Proceeds from the sale benefit more than two dozen Master Gardener volunteer projects throughout Berks County. Gardening gloves, soil test kits, and Penn State gardening publications will also be available. Purchases may be made in cash, by credit, or by check. Visa and MasterCard are accepted for purchases of $50 or more.
The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Beth Finlay at 610-378-1327 in advance of your participation or visit.