It’s what I get for stopping for coffee, the line into the PI Alpha Xi Honor Society (PAX) plant sale at the JC Raulston Arboretum (JCRA) in Raleigh, NC was down Beryl road. In front, waiting in line has the feeling of Filene’s running of the brides in NYC. Everyone is going over the plant sale list posted the week before. Craning their necks to see if they can spot the Metasequoia glyptostroboides ‘Ogon’ they want or check the placement of Hydrangeas this year. After four years of attending I’ve learned to show up the day before and make a map of the treasures I want.
I’ve always had a great conversation about gardening in the line for the sale. Someone, usually me, is always ready with their opinion on some plant, pest or problem. But I’ve found the people toward the back of the line are a little laid back about their gardening and like to talk. There are others there who like to talk about plants too.
I'll make space for those
Do you need to know what your new azalea will need to thrive in your yard or just want to talk plants? Master Gardeners are on hand to answer any questions you may have about the plants you just bought. Any of the Horticulture/Design students and Arboretum staff are there to help you too.
I’m not like most who attend, you know, all business. Buy off the list, discuss with partner if they can dig a hole that deep, run home and stick your plants in the ground and call it a day. I like to meet the people at JCRA, talk to the students. Help those who seem to need help, laugh at the people I mentioned earlier. But there’s always a trade off, socialize or get another Hosta my wife is going to complain about, “Another one?”. I always explain I’m helping out the kids by getting that Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’.
If you are looking to acquire some great plants for your garden project I highly recommend coming to this sale. Plants are provided by the students in the horticultural department at NC State University as well as donated from area nurseries. The varied specialty plants available aren’t found in the big box stores. You’ll have an opportunity to find some hard to find species while supporting a great cause.
See you in the fall, probably in back of the line.
