by Cori Hilsgen
news@thenewsleaders.com
St. John’s Outdoor University’s 12th annual plant and garden tool sale held May 10 drew a crowd of about 100 people. Many of them came early.
Department coordinator Jenny Kutter said the native grasses and flowers have been a popular request at previous sales and more were offered at this year’s sale.
Several area nurseries donated various plants such as Coneflowers, Butterflyweed, Sneezeweed and more. Other plants offered included Rainbow Sen Weigela, Endless Summer and Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangeas, Royalty flowering crab, Kentucky coffee tree, raspberries and more.
Tools offered at the sale included rakes, hand trowels, watering wands and more.
Plants and tools were sold at a 15-percent discount off retail prices. Outdoor U members received 50 percent off pricing.
Kutter said all proceeds from the sale go toward funding Outdoor University education programs.
“There’s nothing like watching your garden blossom out of your support for local environmental and outdoor education in the community,” Kutter said.
Outdoor University memberships were offered during the plant sale.
“A membership is a donation in support of the environmental and outdoor education and land stewardship projects that we do for preK-12, college students and the general community,” Kutter said.
Benefits to membership also include discounts at events like the plant sale, special invitations and more.
“We recommend memberships at levels of $25 for individuals, $40 for families, and more,” said Kutter. “But a membership gift of any amount is welcome.”
Memberships are also available by calling 320-363-3163.