For more than six decades, the scent of fresh soil and blooming roses has served as a seasonal beacon for the Pikes Peak region. In the heart of Colorado Springs, the Horticultural Art Society (HAS) has spent over 60 years cultivating more than just gardens. it has built a community centered on the resilience and beauty of the high plains.
The society’s work is most visible in Monument Valley Park, where they maintain demonstration gardens designed to showcase native plants that can withstand the region’s unique climate challenges. These spaces serve as living classrooms, proving that sustainable, pollinator-friendly landscapes are not only possible but preferable in the shadow of Pikes Peak.
Twice a year, this commitment to education transforms into one of the area’s most anticipated horticultural events: the Gigantic Plant Sale. Scheduled for May 8-9 and May 15-16, the event draws a diverse crowd, from master gardeners seeking rare specimens to novices hoping to keep a single potted plant alive. For the HAS, the sale is the primary vehicle for connecting the community with the tools and knowledge needed to grow responsibly.
“Our mission is to cultivate stunning gardens with mostly native plants,” said HAS trustee Gaye Woullard. “We like to showcase plants that do well in Colorado Springs with our demonstration gardens. We want to connect, enrich, educate and inspire people in this region.”
Beyond the Big-Box Experience: What’s on Offer
While large retail chains offer convenience, the Gigantic Plant Sale focuses on regional specificity. The selection is curated to ensure that the flora is suited for the Pikes Peak environment, reducing the likelihood of plant failure due to altitude or arid conditions. The event features a mix of local and regional vendors, including Desert Canyon Farm, High Country Roses, and Bluebird Nursery—the latter of which transports specialized stock from Nebraska to diversify the lineup.
The inventory spans native perennials, vegetables, herbs, grasses, and flowering vines. According to Woullard, the exclusivity of the stock is a primary draw, often resulting in lines stretching down the sidewalk before the doors even open. This specialization ensures that buyers are taking home plants that are biologically predisposed to thrive in local soil.
One of the most distinct aspects of the sale is the “Dug & Donated” section. This community-driven corner features plants divided from the private gardens of volunteers and members. These donations provide a more personal connection to the local landscape and offer significant value for budget-conscious gardeners, with many items and tools priced around $5.
Accessing Expert Guidance
The sale functions as much as a clinic as it does a marketplace. The event is powered by HAS nonprofit volunteers, but the expertise extends to a partnership with El Paso County’s Colorado State University Extension. Master Gardeners—professionals trained in the science of horticulture—are on-site to answer technical questions.
Visitors can receive tailored advice on several critical fronts:
- Climate Compatibility: Determining which species can survive the specific micro-climates of Colorado Springs.
- Plant Rehabilitation: Learning how to revive struggling plants or manage pests without over-reliance on harsh chemicals.
- Sustainable Design: Implementing native plantings to support local pollinators and reduce water consumption.
For those looking to deepen their involvement, the Horticultural Art Society offers various membership tiers. Individual memberships begin at $25, with family options at $40, patron levels at $60, and lifetime memberships at $500. These memberships grant access to a broader network of enthusiasts and a schedule of gardening classes and workshops throughout the year.
Logistics and Essential Planning
Attending the sale requires some strategic planning, particularly regarding access. Ongoing construction near Monument Valley Park has significantly altered traffic patterns. The bridge crossing Monument Creek is currently closed, meaning the traditional route is unavailable.
Access Route: Visitors should plan to enter the gardens primarily from Uintah Street via Glen Avenue to avoid construction delays.
To help plan your visit, the following table summarizes the event details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | May 8-9 and May 15-16 |
| Hours | Fri: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sat: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. |
| Location | Demonstration Garden, 222 Mesa Road |
| Admission | Free (Pay-per-plant) |
| Payment | Cash, Check, Credit, Wireless |
Because the majority of the event is held outdoors, organizers recommend arriving prepared for the variable May weather. Sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes are essential, as is a reusable bag or wagon to transport heavier pots and soil. Admission is free, making the event accessible to all residents regardless of their budget.
As the growing season begins, the Gigantic Plant Sale stands as a critical checkpoint for local environmental stewardship. By prioritizing native species and community knowledge, the Horticultural Art Society continues to ensure that the Pikes Peak region remains green, sustainable, and connected.
The next phase of the society’s seasonal programming will transition from the sale to its spring workshop series, providing ongoing support for the plants purchased during the May events.
Do you have a favorite native plant that thrives in the Pikes Peak region? Share your gardening tips and experiences in the comments below.
Keep reading
