The annual UF/IFAS Native Plant Sale drew large crowds to the University of Florida campus over the weekend, as hundreds of visitors turned out for the two-day event on June 27-28.
Held near the intersection of Mowry and Hull roads, the sale ran from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day and featured a wide selection of Florida native plants. Attendees arrived early, anticipating strong demand, and many lined up well before opening to secure their selections.
Now in its fifth year, the plant sale offered more than 200 species, including trees, shrubs, milkweeds and wildflowers. The selection, curated by students, faculty and staff, reflected years of steady expansion and growing interest in native landscaping. Organizers noted that the inventory had grown significantly since the event began in 2020, when it was launched in response to increased public demand and to support internships at the UF/IFAS Native Plant Nursery.
This year’s event featured its most diverse selection to date, including rare and uncommon species not typically found in commercial nurseries. Organizers also introduced operational improvements such as multiple checkout lines, enhanced plant labeling, shaded areas and cold drinks for attendees.
Visitors also had the opportunity to engage directly with UF/IFAS experts, receiving guidance on native plant selection and landscape restoration.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Crowds turn out for UF/IFAS native plant sale in Gainesville
Reporting by Staff report, Gainesville Sun / The Gainesville Sun
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By Staff report, Gainesville Sun | USA TODAY Network
