by Connie Oswald Stofko
It’s been a long winter, and I just heard that they’re forecasting more snow for Western New York. A storm, actually. Maybe even a blizzard.
But take heart– Spring arrives on March 20. And even if it doesn’t feel like spring in your garden, you can count on a spring-like atmosphere at Plantasia, the garden and landscape show that bills itself as the official sponsor of spring.
You’ll see 15,000 square feet of gardens filled with blooming trees, shrubs and flowers. To make it feel even more like you’re enjoying a spring day in your backyard, the landscapes will include patios and water gardens. It’s just what we need!
Plantasia will be held in the Fairgrounds Event Center and Expo Hall, 5820 South Park Ave., Hamburg.
Plantasia kicks off with a preview night from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 19. In addition to getting a first look at the theme gardens and vendors, you’ll be able to sample foods from local restaurants and bakeries. Tickets are $15 and include admission and samplings. A cash bar will be available.
Plantasia continues 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, March 20 to 22, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 23. Tickets on those days are $9 for adults (save $1 with the coupon), $6 for senior citizens ages 60 and over (no other discounts apply) and free for children 12 and under.
There will be free education seminars every day. I’ll be giving a talk at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 20 called “45 More Gardening Tips in 45 Minutes.” I’ve found 45 new tips, and I’ll follow the same format I used last year, scrambling to offer one tip per minute. It’s fun just to see whether I can beat the clock!
For the kids, be sure to check out the Aurora Waldorf School Children’s Discovery Garden with an activity center, play areas and educational events. The Easter Bunny may make a guest appearance, too.
Special events include nightly entertainment, live broadcasts, a balloon artist and more.
You’re probably itching to buy something for your own garden, and the vendors will offer a wide selection of plants, garden equipment, tools and unique ornaments. I’ll have a booth, too, so please stop by and say hello!
Plantasia is sponsored by PLANT WNY, formerly known as the Western New York State Nursery and Landscape Association. It’s a not-for-profit corporation of green industry professionals.
Did Spring get the memo yet! I think Spring is on hold this year. At least it will feel like Spring at Plantasia.