City greenhouse opens gates for annual surplus plant sale July 23-25

Plant lovers, gardeners and pollinator enthusiasts are invited to the City Greenhouses for one of the most anticipated horticulture events of the summer.

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) will host its annual surplus plant sale July 23 to 25, offering residents the opportunity to take home a wide selection of greenhouse-grown plants while helping support improvements to the facility that grows many of the flowers and plants seen throughout Colorado Springs parks, trails, medians and public spaces.

Visitors will find a variety of greenhouse-grown native plants, including purple coneflower, Rocky Mountain penstemon, blue flax, blanket flower, blackfoot daisy, wild bergamot, little bluestem, blue grama and more. Plant availability will vary throughout the event.

"Many of the plants grown in our greenhouse begin as seed collected right here in the Pikes Peak region," said City Horticulturist Alex Crochet. "By collecting native seed and growing plants locally, we're able to support landscapes that are uniquely suited to Colorado Springs' climate while helping preserve the character and ecological health of our community. The annual surplus plant sale gives residents a rare opportunity to bring some of those same locally grown plants into their own yards and gardens."

The sale takes place at the City Greenhouses, 1003 Glen Ave., during the following hours:

• Thursday, July 23: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, July 24: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Saturday, July 25: 8 a.m. to noon

A suggested donation of $9 is requested for each one-gallon plant. Donations support maintenance and future improvements to the greenhouse facility, helping sustain the program that produces plants for parks and public spaces throughout the city.

Demand is expected to be high, and shoppers are encouraged to arrive early for the best selection. Plants will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Digital payments will be accepted. Cash donations are also welcome; however, change will not be available. Residents may want to bring a wagon, cart or helping hands, as many plants and trays can be heavy.