Camden Native Plant Sale and Festival, September 15

CAMDEN — The public is invited to Camden’s annual Native Plant Sale and Festival on Sunday, September 15th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They can purchase sustainably grown native plants from local vendors at the beautiful harborside amphitheater in the heart of the Midcoast. This event is in partnership with Wild Ones Midcoast Maine and the Camden Public Library. In the event of rain, the event will be held on Sunday, September 22nd.

There will be shopping opportunities at local native plant nurseries, informational booths from various organizations, discussions with native plant breeders, experts, gardeners and landscapers, two speakers, music, special guest of honor Rachel Bok Goldman and much more.

“This is a great opportunity to learn more about native plants and incorporate them into your own garden and yard,” the library said in a press release.

At 10 a.m., Sharon Turner of Crystal Lake Farm Tree & Plant Nursery will speak on “Key tree and shrub species to support bird and wildlife populations.”

At 11 a.m., the event’s guest of honor will be Rachel Bok Goldman, granddaughter of library parks benefactor Mary Louise Curtis Bok Zimbalist – both women who were ahead of their time and champions of Maine’s beautiful native plants.

At 12:00 noon, David Kibbe of Old Soul’s Farm Permaculture / Food Gardening will speak on “The Benefits of Using Native Pollinator Plants for Growing Vegetables and Fruits.”

Throughout the day, environmental educator Lynn Rutter of Roots n Shoots After School Care provides educational activities for children.

“Come and play,” said CPL. “Dig a hole and plant an oak tree. Create your own garden. Sort seeds and paint wildflowers. Participate in wildflower bingo – and many other fun and meaningful activities.”

Featured artist Cassie Sano, plein air artist and children’s book author, will be painting and exhibiting her works using native plants and habitats throughout the day.

Participating native plant growers include Rooted Elements, Rebel Hill Farm, Bas Rouge Farm and Forge, Crystal Lake Farm & Nursery, Blue Aster Native Plants, Honey Petal Plants, Marpa Farm, 5 Star Nursery and Flora Maine Native Plants + Gardens. You can purchase your plants the day of the show or in advance through pre-sales that begin September 6.

Participating environmental organizations include the Megunticook Watershed Association, Merryspring Nature Center, Coastal Mountain Land Trust, Camden Garden Club, Mid-Coast Audubon and the Camden Conservation Commission.

Volunteers are needed for this event. Click here to fill out a volunteer form and be connected with the event volunteer coordinator, or visit the event page at librarycamden.org to sign up to volunteer.

This event is made possible by Wild Ones Midcoast Maine, the Camden Public Library and generous in-kind sponsors: French & Brawn Marketplace, Hannaford in Camden and Zoot Coffee.