Plant-O-Rama Returns to Sherman Library & Gardens

Sherman Library & Gardens is bringing back the Plant-O-Rama plant sale!  This retro-event, which debuted in 1972 and continued through 1980, returns to Sherman Gardens on Saturday & Sunday, July 17 & 18. The two-day sale will feature plants and plant experts from these participating plant societies:  

Los Angeles International Fern Society, Saddleback Valley Bromeliad Society, SoCal Hibiscus Society and Newport Harbor Orchid Society.

Former Gardens Director, Wade Roberts started the event in 1972 as a fundraiser for the Sherman Foundation.  At the time, former Horticulture Manager John Bishop managed the nursery at the Sherman Foundation Experimental Center in Dana Point.  “People always asked us if we sold plants from the garden.  It seemed like the right thing to do and we had the facility to grow the plants,” recalled Bishop.  “It was a very popular event.  People would arrive early, and wait in the parking lot until the gardens opened,” he added.  Plant-O-Rama showcased local plant societies as well as a unique variety of houseplants, tropical, hanging baskets, and succulents.  

Fast forward to 2021. “The plant craze is alive and well, so we’re bringing back Plant-O-Rama and teaming up with local plant societies to offer our visitors a great selection of unique plants,” said Erin Aguiar, Horticulture Director of Sherman Library & Gardens.  “Wear your bellbottoms and find the perfect plant for your macramé plant hanger!” she added.  

This special event supports Sherman Library & Gardens and local plant societies, and it’s FREE with garden admission.  Garden admission is only $5.  “Take a hint from the patrons of the original Plant-O-Rama and come early for the best selection,” added Aguiar.  

Saturday & Sunday, July 17 & 18 from 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day 

Sherman Library & Gardens is located at 2647 E. Coast Hwy. in Corona del Mar. thesherman.org or call 949.673.2261.