Forest Preserve Hosts Foundation's Native Plant Sale In Joliet

Stock up on plants that are good for the environment during the upcoming sixth annual “Bringing Nature Home Native Plant Sale" at the Forest Preserve District of Will County's Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet.

The two-day plant sale is being offered by The Nature Foundation of Will County, a nonprofit fundraising organization that supports the Forest Preserve District's education, recreation and conservation efforts. This is the largest fundraiser of the year for the foundation.

A presale fundraiser will take place from 4-9 p.m. on Friday, May 18. The presale costs $25 per person and gives guests exclusive access to plants before the public sale, which takes place the next day. Tickets can be purchased from the foundation. Presale attendees also can enjoy music, boutique wines, craft beers, artisanal cheeses and gourmet desserts. The ticket also includes a complimentary raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets will be available for purchase, and silent auction items will be available for bid.

The native plant sale will be held from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 19. No registration or entry fee is required. Plant shoppers can explore the benefits of planting their lawn or garden with native species. More than 100 species of native perennials, shrubs and trees will be available for purchase. Vendors and exhibitors also will be in attendance including: University of Illinois Extension – Illinois Master Gardeners, The Conservation Foundation, Illinois Native Plant Society, Illinois Natural History Survey Traveling Science Center and Will County Audubon Society. Preordered rain barrels will be available for pick-up.

The event will be held rain or shine.

Cash, checks, and credit cards will be accepted. No refunds will be given.

This year's native plant sale is sponsored by Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd.; Kavanagh Grumley & Gorbold, LLC; Leopardo; Enbridge; Brent Hassert Consulting, LLC; and Liberty Creative Solutions.