Spring native plant sale is all online

The California poppy may be the most recognizable California native plant, but there are many others that grow well in the Sacramento region. (Photo: Kathy Morrison)

Our California poppies are a reminder: March is for planting – especially California natives.

While our state flower is in bloom, other natives are just beginning to sprout new growth. Flowering shrubs and small trees such as western redbud look their best this month, too, inspiring gardeners to add them to their landscape.

Making the most of this planting window is the annual spring sale of the Sacramento Valley chapter of the California Native Plant Society. And with a pandemic-inspired twist, this spring sale is all online.

Patrons may order plants Wednesday through Sunday, March 9-13. The sale officially opens at noon Wednesday and closes at 5 p.m. Sunday.

Then, make a reservation (between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.) for drive-through pick up on one of two Sundays, March 20 or March 27. The plants will be available at the chapter’s Elderberry Farms Nursery at Soil Born Farms’ American River Ranch at 2140 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova.

Scores of varieties of water-wise California natives will be available from Achillea millefolium (yarrow) to Vitis californica (California wild grape). Shop early for best selection.

Planting California natives is a great way to support native wildlife such as bees, butterflies and birds. About 80 varieties of plants offered in this sale are considered butterfly magnets. Almost 50 attract birds while 25 specifically are hummingbird favorites.