A plethora of plants

Annual plant and garden fair has something for everyone

Attention all gardeners and last-minute Mother’s Day shoppers: The Camas Plant and Garden Fair is heading your way this Saturday.

The 19th annual event will take place on the streets of downtown Camas from 9 to 4 p.m. and will include a wide array of plants, trees, garden art, planters, garden furniture, birdhouses, iron works, and a large selection of other locally made and grown products.

Organizers from the Downtown Camas Association describe the event as an opportunity to get a special gift for mom or pick up something for the garden.

“We love this event and are excited to be able to continue to grow the plant fair in Downtown Camas,” said Carrie Schulstad, DCA executive director. “Come stroll the streets of historic downtown, enjoy a latte and treat or lunch, and shop from unique local plant and garden vendors. The quality is exceptional, and it is always a great experience to connect directly with the growers.”

The fair will include new features this year. For starters, 10 minute educational spotlights will occur at different vendor booths throughout the day.

One will be the Clematis Society showcasing container gardening, and another is a presentation discussing the benefits of herbal infusions and how to make them.

Another new offering at the event will be a planting station. Attendees can purchase pots or containers at the fair and then plant their flowers and plants on site. Experts will offer suggestions on effective and sustainable container gardening.

“This event has become a true passion project for me,” said Valerie Mouser, vendor liason. “I am just so proud to be a part of it. I love Camas so much and this fair encapsulates all that is good and beautiful about our fair city. We have a fantastic line up, and I can’t wait to share it with our visitors.”

Returning to the fair will be the popular Kids’ Zone, which will include the Camas Camp n’ Ranch 4-H petting zoo, craft activities with Camp Windy Hill, planting activities with the Camas Farmer’s Market, and face painting. The giant puppet “Rosie” will be back entertaining the crowds as well as “Farmer Friendly” on stilts.

Boy Scout Troop 554 will be on hand with wagons to assist attendees with their purchases, as needed. There will also be live music and fresh food options.

For more information, visit www.cwplantfair.org.