Dupage Policy Journal

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County will host its popular Native Plant Sale on May 19 and 20 at Mayslake Peabody Estate, located at 1717 31st St. in Oak Brook. The sale will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Shoppers will have the opportunity to receive gardening advice from District plant experts and browse through a selection of 160 species of flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs, including five new species this year. A list of anticipated plants is available on the District’s website at dupageforest.org/native-plant-sale, although actual inventory will depend on supplier availability as plants are not restocked nightly.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own boxes and wagons for transporting purchases. Payment options include cash, credit, and checks.

All plants sold at the event originate from seed collected within 100 miles of DuPage County and are free of insecticides containing neonicotinoids, which are harmful to pollinators such as bees.

“The native plant sale helps promote the many benefits of growing native species, from providing important shelter and food sources for wildlife to offering low-maintenance beauty to our surroundings,” said Anamari Dorgan, director of Community Engagement at the Forest Preserve District. “Our sale is special because we offer direct access to plant experts who can offer customized recommendations based on a shopper’s preferences and growing conditions.”

Proceeds from the sale support educational programming at the Forest Preserve District.

Native plants provide essential resources for pollinators and require less maintenance and water compared to annuals during hot summer months. They also enhance biodiversity by providing food sources for various pollinators and help aerate soil with their deep roots.

Additionally, gardeners can collect free wood chips on Saturday, May 20 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Forest Preserve District’s native plant nursery on Mack Road in Warrenville. Individuals may fill one pickup truck or smaller vehicle; contractors are not permitted. A District employee will assist with filling trailers and truck beds using a tractor. Those needing smaller amounts should bring shovels and containers.

The Forest Preserve District has been connecting people with nature for over a century, drawing more than 5.5 million visitors annually across its 60 forest preserves, extensive trails, education centers, and numerous programs.

For further information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org where links to the District’s e-newsletter and social media pages can be found.