Spring is one of the best times to garden in Houston, making it the perfect season to refresh your yard with plants that thrive in the region’s climate. For gardeners and those just getting into the hobby, often called plant enthusiasts or plant lovers, the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s Spring Plant Sale offers an opportunity to add Texas native plants to their landscapes while supporting local conservation efforts.

The annual sale will feature close to 200 varieties of native plants, including perennial and annual wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees. Native plants are well suited to Houston’s environment because they naturally adapt to the region’s weather and soil conditions. They typically require less water and fertilizer and need fewer pesticides than non native species. Many also attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators that play an important role in healthy ecosystems.

Among the plants expected to be available this year are Red Maple, White Yarrow, Little Bluestem, Yellow Wild Indigo, Green Milkweed, and Dogwood. These plants can help homeowners create beautiful landscapes while conserving water, protecting soil, and reducing the need for frequent mowing.

The Houston Arboretum holds plant sales in both spring and fall, with proceeds supporting the organization’s conservation work and environmental education programs. Arboretum members receive discounts on plant purchases during the event.

The Spring Plant Sale will take place Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, located at 120 West Loop North between Post Oak Boulevard and Woodway Drive.

Admission to the event is free and open to the public. Plant prices will range from $4.50 for 4 inch plants to $14 for 1 gallon plants. Milkweed will be available for $16, and larger plants in 3 to 5 gallon containers will cost about $30.

Organizers recommend arriving early for the best selection since plant quantities may be limited and availability can change. Visitors are also encouraged to enter through the 610 entrance and park in the parking loop for easier access to the sale area. Bringing a personal cart may also be helpful since a limited number will be available onsite.

More information about the Spring Plant Sale, including a full plant list when it becomes available, can be found at houstonarboretum.org.