Living in Old Lyme

Spring is in the air, and for Old Lyme and surrounding communities, that can only mean one thing: the Duck River Garden Club’s annual Spring Plant Sale is just around the corner! This beloved local tradition serves as the unofficial kickoff to the gardening season, bringing together plant enthusiasts, novice gardeners, and families looking for that perfect Mother’s Day gift. The event has become a hallmark of community spirit and horticultural passion, drawing crowds eager to enhance their gardens with locally sourced greenery.

Under the expansive tent on Halls Road, this year’s sale promises to be as lively and varied as ever. The event transforms an ordinary weekend into a celebration of growth and renewal, creating an atmosphere where gardening knowledge flows freely between neighbors and friends. For many residents, the annual plant sale marks the beginning of their seasonal planting journey and offers an opportunity to reconnect with fellow garden enthusiasts after the long winter months.

Plant diversity stands as a cornerstone of the Duck River Garden Club’s spring sale, with hundreds of varieties carefully selected to thrive in our local growing conditions. Visitors can browse through an impressive collection of hanging baskets overflowing with blooming flowers, perfect for adding instant color to porches and patios.

The selection of vibrant geraniums—a garden staple known for their reliability and extended flowering period—draws particular attention from seasoned gardeners. Annual favorites provide that immediate splash of seasonal color, while an extensive array of perennials offers garden investments that return year after year.

What truly sets this plant sale apart is the special selection of members’ plants, lovingly divided and donated from the personal gardens of Duck River Garden Club members. These tried-and-true varieties have proven their ability to flourish in our specific climate and soil conditions.

The sale also emphasizes ecological gardening with an excellent selection of native pollinators that support local wildlife and biodiversity. For those looking to grow their food, the vegetable and herb section offers healthy starter plants to jumpstart productive kitchen gardens. From experienced horticulturists to first-time plant parents, the sale provides options for every gardening interest and skill level.

Beyond providing quality plants, the Duck River Garden Club’s annual sale serves a greater purpose in our community. All proceeds from this popular event directly support the club’s extensive civic beautification efforts—initiatives that enhance public spaces throughout Old Lyme and neighboring areas.

These projects include the maintenance of community gardens, seasonal plantings in town centers, and landscape improvements at local landmarks that might otherwise go unattended. Additionally, funds help sustain educational programs that spread horticultural knowledge, conservation awareness, and sustainable gardening practices throughout the community.

The timing of the sale during Mother’s Day weekend (May 13-14) makes it a perfect opportunity to select a living gift that will bring joy throughout the growing season. The convenient location under the big tent on Halls Road ensures that the weather won’t interfere with the festivities.

The sale runs from 9:00 am until plants are sold out, with experienced gardeners from the club on hand to provide advice and answer questions. For additional details about plant varieties, pricing, or the club’s ongoing activities, community members are encouraged to visit www.duckrivergardenclub.org, where a complete listing of upcoming events and initiatives is regularly updated. Mark your calendars for this can’t-miss spring tradition!