Sacramento’s find out farms hosts native plant clearance sale

California native plants prefer to be transplanted BEFORE spring arrives, says Matthew Ampersand, owner of find out farms in Sacramento’s South Oak Park neighborhood.

Which is why this Saturday is the perfect time to hold a native plant clearance sale.

Saturday, March 7, find out farms will offer 40% off a wide selection of its specialty – California native plants, particularly perennials and shrubs. Nursery hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; admission is free.

“We’re going to have a wide selection of our inventory, deeply discounted in order to persuade you to please plant native plants before it gets hot!” Ampersand says.

Why plant natives now? Soil right now has perfect conditions to get natives off to a strong start.

“Soil temperature matters!” Ampersand says. “It affects when seeds germinate and how roots form.  When it’s cool in the soil, many of our favorite perennial plants focus on growing thick, structural, succulent roots.

“Most California native plants have evolved to live in a place where there is a wet winter and a dry summer,” he adds. “To give them their best chance at success, we should be planting them when the soil is still cool, and there may still be some rain.”

Ampersand also invites gardeners to pick up some wildflower seed to scatter at home (or wherever) or vegetable or flower seed to plant. His nursery hosts a free seed swap every Saturday morning.

“For years now, we have had an ongoing free seed swap on Saturdays,” he says. “If you know me, you know I am passionate about seeds. I think that they are amazing. Every time I see one germinate, it’s like seeing magic. I think seed saving and seed sharing are tethered to food sovereignty, culture, and community.

“We offer free seeds to anyone who would like to grow them,” he adds. “Want to try a new variety? Come grab a few seeds. Have extra seeds in your packet? Bring them by to share with others!

Never grown anything from seed before? Please come by and let’s fix that.”

An “urban micro-farm and nursery,” find out farms is located at 4712 Parker Ave., Sacramento, west of Stockton Boulevard.