Explore the Vibrant World of California Native Plants at L.A. Times Festival of Books
California is known for its diverse plant life, and what better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in the beauty and wonder of native plants at the L.A. Times Festival of Books? Join experts from the Theodore Payne Foundation and California Native Plant Society on April 26-27 at the Plants’ Native Plant Booth, located at the heart of the festival grounds.
The booth will be a haven for plant enthusiasts, offering a plethora of displays showcasing California native plants curated by the Theodore Payne Foundation. As you stroll through the booth, you’ll be greeted by a wealth of information in both English and Spanish on how to incorporate these plants into your landscape to create fire-resilient environments while avoiding invasive species. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the importance of native plants in maintaining ecological balance and supporting local wildlife.
On April 26, the California Native Plant Society will be providing visitors with personalized lists of native plants tailored to their specific ZIP Code and landscaping needs. This personalized touch ensures that you leave the booth armed with the knowledge and resources needed to kickstart your own native plant oasis at home.
For those looking to bring a piece of the booth home, the Theodore Payne Foundation will be offering a range of goodies, including stickers, tote bags, native poppy and chia seeds, and 4-inch pots of native plants. Additionally, L.A. Times Plants will be giving away free packets of sunflower seeds, perfect for even the most novice of gardeners. Current subscribers of the L.A. Times Plants Newsletter and new registrants will have the chance to snag these seeds, along with some fun stickers and pins.
Connect with Nature Beyond the Booth
But the booth is just the beginning of your plant-filled adventure at the Festival of Books. Beyond the booth, you can look forward to discovering the best hiking, biking, and running trails in Southern California, as well as serene spots perfect for meditation and yoga. It’s a chance to not only learn about native plants but also to connect with nature in a meaningful and enriching way.
Meet the Plant Enthusiast Behind the Scenes
Jeanette Marantos, a Features reporter at the Los Angeles Times, is the driving force behind the L.A. Times Plants newsletter and the coverage of all things plants, gardening, and landscapes in Southern California. With her wealth of knowledge and passion for plant life, she brings a unique perspective to the world of native plants, sharing insights and stories that inspire readers to cultivate their own green spaces.
As you navigate the bustling aisles of the Festival of Books, don’t forget to swing by the Plants’ Native Plant Booth to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of California native plants. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy at this botanical oasis. So mark your calendars for April 26-27 and get ready to embark on a journey through the vibrant world of native plants.
