Master Gardeners’ plant sale goes virtual

GUELPH — Guelph-Wellington Master Gardeners (GWMG) is holding its first-ever virtual plant sale.

A newly-developed Shopify web shop will be launched and open for orders on May 20 through May 26. Preregistration is currently available.

Browse through an impressive selection of plants featuring many unusual and hard to find perennials, natives, annuals, woodies and vegetables – mostly dug from members’ very own gardens.

Pricing is $3, $5 and $10 for perennials; annuals are three for $5.

Over the years, the Guelph-Wellington Master Gardeners Plant Sale has become a highly-anticipated favourite for winter-weary local gardeners looking for inspiration and a reason to dig in the dirt.

“Our annual plant sale has served various purposes: it has allowed us a unique opportunity to connect with the public, to encourage new gardeners and meet experienced ones, to foster successful gardening with proven, locally-hardy plants, and to share our joy in gardening,” says Margaret Stewart, a 15-year Master Gardener member who serves on 2021’s plant sale planning group.

Proceeds from the plant sale support GWMG’s yearly operating costs and outreach activities, Stewart says.

“As this year’s operating costs have been reduced, we have chosen to support youth in our community by donating 25% of our proceeds to Wyndham House,” she said.

With more people at home, the interest in plants and gardening has reached sky-high levels and increased demand has placed a strain on the gardening supply chain.

“Since COVID, our gardens have become, for many more people than before, places of refuge and relaxation. Growing our own fruit and vegetables, our flowers, or just a beautiful plant offers us some sense of control and achievement in frightening times,” Stewart said.

“Planting a tree translates into faith in the future.”

Fast Facts

– Pre-register for news, alerts and reminders at www.gwmg-spring-2021-plant-sale.myshopify.com;

– Scheduled pick-up dates are May 28 and 29;

– Pick up location is 8121 Indian Trail, Rockwood;

– Payment is due at time of purchase via credit, debit, Apple/Google Pay;

  Receipts will be emailed to purchasers along with a link to book your pickup slot, COVID-19 protocols and F.A.Q.; and

– Order pick-up times must be booked in advance.