UVic plant sale keeps gardens growing
by Mary-Lou Leidl

It's that bloomin' time of year again when Finnerty Garden Friends and volunteers host UVic's annual plant sale.

Whether you're an avid collector or a first-time gardener, there are plenty of plants to choose from to help brighten the garden year-round. Hanging baskets, plants for the rockery or pond, trees, shrubs and vines, herbs and vegetables - native, exotic, annual or perennial - they'll all be at the McKinnon Gym on Sunday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to
1 p.m.

"Prices are better than at a nursery, but it's the quality and selection that people come for," says Rhonda Rose (facilities management), one of two UVic gardeners who keep the Finnerty Gardens thriving. Dahlias and chrysanthemums are new at the sale this year, as is a stall for the younger set, "Gardening for Kids."

One of the largest and perhaps oldest plant sales in Victoria, the UVic Plant Sale is the financial backbone for the development of the gardens' stunning six-acre site. And to keep up with a trend for the more diverse and unusual, the sale now depends on professional growers as well as donations from private gardeners to supply many of the plants. Proceeds from the sale support special projects and acquisitions.

Thanks to last year's sale, which netted close to $14,000, the 29-year-old gardens underwent an expansion and facelift along the west side of the Henderson Road entrance. And after a few too many dry summers, an improved irri-gation system that gauges water use was installed.

As for the sale itself, it's a good idea to bring carrying boxes and to come early, says Carmen Varcoe of Friends of Finnerty Gardens. Plant experts will be on hand to answer questions and give advice.
Guided tours of Finnerty Gardens are available Sunday, May 9 from 1–4 p.m. Meet at the chapel entrance.