Cultivating Sustainable Bliss: Announcing the 2024 Orange County Garden Festival & Plant Sale!

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes the much-awaited 2024 Garden and Plant Festival! This year, we’re thrilled to present the theme, “Sustainable Garden Paradise,” where we’ll delve into the world of eco-friendly plants, Florida-friendly gardening, and sustainable horticultural practices. The festival is entirely organized by our dedicated Orange County Master Gardener volunteers, who are committed to serving the residents of Orange County. Join us for a memorable and green celebration that’s both inspiring and informative.

The 2024 Garden Festival & Plant Sale will take place on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 8:30am to 3pm at UF/IFAS Extension Orange County, 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, 32812.

This year’s theme, “Sustainable Garden Paradise,” reflects our commitment to promoting eco-friendly and Florida-friendly plants, as well as sustainable garden techniques. It’s a celebration of nature and its resilience, showcasing how we can coexist with our environment while creating beautiful, vibrant gardens.

Educational Sessions:

10-10:45 am- How to be a Turfgrass Detective: Identifying Small Signs of Big Issues in Your Lawn by Calvin Gardner, Urban Residential Horticulture Agent
11-11:45 am- Honeybees: Tips, Tricks, and Truths I Find Interesting by JK Yarborough, Livestock & Natural Resources Agent
12:15-1 pm- How to Become a Master Gardener Volunteer by Clarissa Chairez, Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator Agent
2:15-3 pm- Water Conservation Opportunities – They’re Everywhere! by Joseph Montemurno, Water Conservation Coordinator, OUC- Orlando Utility Commission

Educational Demonstrations:

10-10:30 am- Attracting Wildlife to Your Yard by Heather Randle, Master Gardener Volunteer
10:45-11:15 am- Introduction to Container Gardening with Ornamentals by Tim DePalma, Master Gardener Volunteer
11:30-12 pm- Pollinator Gardening by Diane McNeill, Master Gardener Volunteer Intern
12:15-12:45 pm- Shade Gardening by Bonnie Temby and Arjuna Dusherla, Master Gardener Volunteers
1-1:30 pm- Raising Butterflies by Doree Giles and Fran Boettcher, Master Gardener Volunteers
1:45-2:15 pm- Plant Propagation by Dena Wild, Master Gardener Volunteer

FAQ’s:

Do you allow pets? While we are pet lovers, for the safety of our guests and our plants, pets are not allowed. Service animals only.
Where do I park? We offer free parking on our property. Follow directions to 6021 S. Conway Road, Orlando, FL 32812. We will have volunteers in orange vests to guide you to our Main Lot upon entering. If our Main Lot fills, you will be instructed and directed to our Overflow Lot.
Do you have ATMs? Unfortunately no. Please bring cash if you’d like to participate in our Cup Auction, or as a backup form of payment.
What’s a cup auction? Think of it as a silent auction. We will have donations made by local businesses, our vendors and Master Gardener Volunteers for a chance for you to win. Tickets will be available for purchase: $1 = 1 ticket, $5 = 7 tickets and $10 = 15 tickets. You place the tickets in cups numbered with their associated item. The ticket picked is the winner. This is CASH ONLY. This is a free event, so please consider participating. Your donations help support the Master Gardener Program of Orange County.
What if it rains? Our Garden Festival & Plant Sale is rain or shine.

Featuring: Orlando Utilities Commission ‘Tiny Green Home’

We’re excited to announce that in alignment with our “Sustainable Garden Paradise” theme, OUC will be bringing their Tiny Green Home! It’s an educational resource showcasing the benefits of:

Energy and water conservation
Renewable energy
Sustainability rebates
Vehicle electrification
Composting
Growing your own food
Sustainability programs from OUC, the City, and the Science Center

Why Attend?

Connect with Experts: Our festival is an excellent opportunity to connect with experienced gardeners and horticultural specialists. They’ll be on hand to answer your questions and provide valuable advice.
Inspiration and Ideas: Discover fresh ideas and inspiration for your garden. Learn how to create a flourishing garden paradise while reducing your environmental impact.
Support Local: By attending the festival, you’re supporting local vendors, food truck operators, and the dedicated Orange County Master Gardener Volunteers.

Stay Updated:

As the festival approaches, we update this blog on a weekly basis. So keep an eye on this blog post for the latest updates and any additional information you might need to plan your visit.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the 2024 Garden Festival & Plant Sale! Together, let’s cultivate a “Sustainable Garden Paradise” that’s not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. See you there!