A previous tree and plant sale; photo submitted
CARBONDALE, Ill. - It’s not too early to start planning for fall garden projects. A one-day sale of native trees and other plants will be held on Saturday, October 6 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Carbondale’s Murdale Shopping Center.
Green Earth and Keep Carbondale Beautiful team up for this sale, with KCB selling native trees and shrubs, and Green Earth selling dozens of other native perennials, including grasses and ferns. All plants are grown by Southernwood Gardens, Forrest Keeling Nursery, and Tabor Nursery. Experts will be on hand to advise shoppers on best practices for planting and maintenance.
More information can be found on the websites: greenearthinc.org and keepcb.org. Green Earth's plants range from $10 to $20. Keep Carbondale Beautiful sells trees in 3-gallon pots for $30 ($5 off if ordered by Sept. 30) and shrubs for $20. KCB will try to fill any special order received by September 30, even if not on the list of expected trees or shrubs.
Planting with natives is an important step in improving the ecological health of urban and suburban neighborhoods, but native species are still hard to find at most local plant retailers. Natives are generally hardier, and provide food and shelter for indigenous wildlife. Buying natives that were grown nearby ensures that they are adapted to the local climate.
About Green Earth
Green Earth is a nonprofit land conservation organization. Our mission is to preserve natural areas for the benefit of the people of Carbondale, Ill. We own and maintain six natural areas, totaling 220 acres, and nine miles of hiking trails all open to the public for outdoor recreation and enjoyment. Learn more about our preserves and hiking trails by visiting us at www.greenearthinc.org.
About Keep Carbondale Beautiful
Keep Carbondale Beautiful is a non-profit organization based in Carbondale that focuses on litter control, recycling, community beautification, waste reduction, and environmental education programs. Learn more at www.keepcb.org.