PARKERSBURG, WV — Green thumbs and curious growers alike are invited to dig into gardening knowledge at the Spring Gardening Seminar and Plant Sale on Thursday, April 10, hosted at the Judge Black Annex in downtown Parkersburg.
The plant sale begins at 5 p.m., followed by the seminar at 6 p.m. in the Fort Boreman Room of the annex, located at 317 Market Street, across from the Blennerhassett Hotel.
Organized by the Wood County Master Gardeners and the Parkersburg Tree Commission, this annual event offers practical advice, expert insights, and a chance to take home everything from herbs to shrubs.
“The Spring Gardening Seminar is a great educational opportunity for gardening enthusiasts of all ages in the Mid-Ohio Valley,” said JJ Barrett, Wood County Agricultural Extension Agent. “The speakers we have this year are phenomenal.”
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Expert Speakers Share Gardening Wisdom
The evening features presentations by three gardening experts:
🌳 Karen Cox – “Backyard Shade Tree Selection”
An ISA-certified arborist and WVU Extension agent, Cox will share tips on selecting the right tree for the right place—covering size, placement, and long-term care. Her focus will include trees ideal for shade, wind breaks, and landscape enhancement.
🌿 Jennifer Johnson – “Let’s Grow Native”
Representing Native Roots Inc., Johnson will highlight the benefits of landscaping with native plants. She’ll explain how choosing native species supports pollinators, enhances biodiversity, and strengthens ties to the natural heritage of the Mid-Ohio Valley.
🍃 JJ Barrett – “Top 10 Herbs for the Kitchen Garden”
Barrett will present his favorite kitchen herbs that serve both culinary and medicinal purposes. Attendees can expect growing tips and delicious recipe ideas using these versatile plants.
Free Tree Seedlings and Local Plant Sale
In celebration of Arbor Day (observed April 11 in West Virginia), the first 50 attendees who register and stay for the educational portion will receive a free tree seedling to plant at home.
The plant sale will include:
- Vegetables, herbs, and flowers
- Gardening books and tools
- Pots, shrubs, and more
All items will be available thanks to local Master Gardeners, who will also be on hand to offer advice and answer questions.
“We will offer a variety of flowers, herbs, vegetables, gardening books, gardening tools, and other items,” said Master Gardener Lynn Greenly. “I enjoy volunteering and helping with the sale each year.”
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Learn and Grow with Master Gardeners
Wood County’s Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who share their knowledge through community-based gardening projects like the Wood County Library Arboretum and the Armstrong Garden in Williamstown.
“The Master Gardener Program is a great way to enhance your gardening knowledge and give back to the community,” said Joyce McDougal of the Extension Master Gardeners.
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Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just planting your first seed, this event promises education, community, and inspiration to grow.
Mark your calendar for April 10 and join the Mid-Ohio Valley’s gardening community in celebrating a fresh new season.
