CAMDEN — The public is invited to the annual Camden Native Plant Sale and Celebration on Sunday, Sept. 15, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., and to purchase sustainably-grown native plants from local vendors in the beautiful harborside Amphitheater in the heart of the Midcoast. This event is being put on in partnership with Wild Ones Midcoast Maine and Camden Public Library. The event's rain date is Sunday, September 22.
 
There will be shopping from local native plant nurseries, educational booths with various organizations; conversations with native plant growers, experts, gardeners, and landscapers; two speakers; music; special guest of honor Rachel Bok Goldman, and more.

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

At 10 a.m., Sharon Turner of Crystal Lake Farm Tree & Plant Nursery will speak on "Keystone Tree and Shrub Species to Support Bird and Wildlife Populations."

At 11 a.m. there will be a welcoming of the event's Guest of Honor Rachel Bok Goldman, the granddaughter of the library parks benefactor, Mary Louise Curtis Bok Zimbalist — both women ahead of their times and champions of Maine’s beautiful native plants. 

At 12 p.m., noon, David Kibbe of Old Soul's Farm Permaculture / Food Gardening will speak on "The Benefits of Using Native Pollinator Plants for Vegetable and Fruit Growing."

Throughout the day, Environmental Educator Lynn Rutter, of Roots n Shoots After School Care, will provide educational activities for children.  

“Come and Play,” said CPL. “Dig a hole and plant an Oak. Design your own Backyard Habitat. Sort seeds and paint wildflowers. Join a Wildflower Bingo Game – and lots more fun and meaningful activities.”

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

Participating native plant growers will 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 buy your plants on the day-of, or ahead of time with Pre-sales which start September 6.

Participating environmental organizations will include 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's volunteer coordinator, or visit the event page at librarycamden.org to sign up as a volunteer.

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