An abnormally warm winter is making it feel like spring has already sprung in Madison. If you’re ready to start flexing your green thumb, check out the Friends of the Arboretum’s (FOA) current plant programs.
Note: It may feel like spring, but experts are reminding Madisonians to hold off on planting spring flora until after last frost in May.
Native Plant Sale
Since 1990, FOA has hosted an annual Native Plant Sale, offering Wisconsin-native plants grown in commercial nurseries.
Online orders are accepted until March 31, with pickup in May. While there is also an in-person sale in May, shopping online allows you to buy larger quantities, garden mixes, trees, and shrubs.
Grass-to-Garden
Three Madison residents who apply by Sunday, April 14 will be gifted a rain garden kit. Rain gardens feature native plants to absorb rainwater, preventing erosion and pollution.
While educational support will be provided, applicants must have suitable space (35-65 sqft) and tools for planting. Kit recipients are expected to submit a written or in-person report on the experience.
