2024 PlantFest at Clackamas Community College

Photo by Irina Iriser

Join a celebration of color and cultivation at PlantFest.

The event is hosted by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon. Founded in 1984, the organization is dedicated to nurturing the gardening community in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

PlantFest promises a day full of inspiration, expert advice and gorgeous plants to brighten your garden.

PlantFest is Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the Clackamas Community College Campus in Oregon City. Join fellow plant enthusiasts at the Gregory Forum for a day of vibrant lectures, a plant sale and community connection.

Doors open at 9 a.m., so arrive early to grab some coffee, tea or cookies, and settle in before the day’s exciting activities.

Lectures

Lectures begin at 10 a.m. with a trio of expert speakers, each delving into the theme: “Pretty Tough Color for your Garden.” The talks are followed by a Q&A at 11 a.m.

Here’s who you’ll hear from:

Mark Akimoff of iLLAHE Rare Plants: Discover lesser-known and unusual bulbs that can add intrigue to your garden.
Lore Sampson of Rarity Gardens: Learn all about the resurgence of peonies and how to cultivate these stunning flowers.
Norm Jacobs of Arbutus Garden Arts: Explore dwarf and unusual conifer cultivars that bring both texture and toughness to your landscape.

All three lectures are $20 for nonmembers and $10 for members.

Plant Sale

After the lecture, check out the Plant Sale from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Entry to the plant sale is free, so even if you can’t make it to the lectures, don’t miss out on the opportunity to browse and buy plants from local nurseries.

Keep in mind, there are no boxes or plant holding provided. be sure to bring your own wagons or boxes.

Vendors include: