Spruce up Your Yard through Botanical Fest, March 6

MELBOURNE, FLA.—After the winter freezes, what yard in Brevard County is not in need of plant restoration? A wide range of plant choices will be in the offing at Florida Institute of Technology’s fifth annual Florida Tech Botanical Fest Plant and Garden Sale. The always-popular event will be held March 6 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on campus.

The event offers plant lovers a chance to buy greenery and garden décor, as well as support the university’s extensive botanical garden. Admission is free.
The fest will showcase some of Florida’s finest plant and garden vendors, offering palms, exotics, native plants, ornamental shrubs, bamboo, flowering plants and much more. Garden accessories also will be available, such as decorative pottery and outdoor art. The event will take place at Florida Tech on West University Boulevard, just west of Babcock Street. Signs and volunteers on West University Boulevard and Country Club Road will point the way.
Visitors may take a guided tour of the Botanical Garden to view the diverse collection of palms and newly created specialty sections, such as the croton area. Master gardeners will be on hand to answer gardening questions. A variety of live demonstrations by various vendors will take place throughout the day, and food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The Florida Tech Botanical Garden Committee organized the event, with sponsorships provided by Central Florida Palm & Cycad Society; GTC Inc. of Brevard; Four C’s Nursery; Hopkins Nursery; Valkaria Gardens; Florida Today; and Florida Tech. Proceeds from the fest will benefit the continuing restoration of the Botanical Garden.
The Botanical Garden is open to the public daily until dusk. The tranquil preserve is designed to be a forum for horticultural display, education, research and outreach. For more information, contact Tama Johnson at johnsont@fit.edu or (321) 674-8962.