May 10-11: May Market at Phipps


77th Annual May Market at Phipps Kicks Off Spring for Pittsburgh’s Greenest Thumbs
Premier plant sale features season’s best selections from some of the region’s finest vendors.

Pittsburgh, Pa.  On May 10 and 11, 2013, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens’ perennially popular May Market will bring together staff horticulturists, local garden clubs, nurseries and farms, and other vendors on its historic and sustainably managed front lawn for a plant and garden accessory sale of ultra-green proportions. In honor of National Public Gardens Day, attendees will also receive half off admission to Summer Flower Show, featuring bright blooms and dazzling glass art, during event hours.
   Organic herbs and vegetable seedlings; tropical plants and succulents; low-maintenance perennials and shrubs on Phipps’ Top 10 Sustainable Plant Lists; native and rain garden plants; and many other seasonal favorites are among the offerings green thumbs can expect to find at May Market. Also available for sale will be everything from organic soil and landscaping materials to botanical art and natural body care products. As always, Phipps’ staff and Master Gardeners will be on hand to share advice, and delicious hand-dipped fondant strawberries — a traditional offering — will be served.
   During May Market, guests can enjoy a 50-percent discount on tickets to the Summer Flower Show, showcasing the glass creations of artists working in and around Pittsburgh.  Café Phipps— a Green Restaurant Certified® eatery offering fresh, seasonal foods — will be open both days as well to make for the perfect Mother’s Day weekend outing. May Market, held from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 10 and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 11, is free and open to the public. Learn more at phipps.conservatory.org.
Great Plant Auction
   On May 3, the weekend before May Market, Phipps Garden Center in Mellon Park will be transformed into an auction house where plant lovers can bid on many sought-after trees, shrubs and perennials, as well as unique garden accessories for the home. Benefiting Phipps’ dynamic education programs, this lively annual sale is supported by local garden centers, businesses and specialty mail-order nurseries. Required reservations can be made by calling 412/441-4442, ext. 3925. The cost is $20 for Phipps members and $25 for nonmembers, and includes wine and hors d’oeuvres. Doors open at 6 p.m.
About Phipps: Built in 1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, Pa. is a green leader among public gardens with a mission to inspire and educate all with the beauty and importance of plants; to advance sustainability and promote human and environmental well-being through action and research; and to celebrate its historic glasshouse. Learn more: phipps.conservatory.org.

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