Design & illustration by Cathy G. Johnson
Southside Community Land Trust’s 33rd Annual Rare & Unusual Plant Sale achieved unprecedented success this May drawing record-breaking crowds and becoming the organization’s most well-attended Plant Sale to date. With beautiful weather blessing the two-day event at City Farm, more than 1,200 people attended on Day One alone, creating an atmosphere of excitement and community spirit that we’re still celebrating.
Nearly 20,000 plants found new homes across Rhode Island during the weekend event, from rare perennials donated by local nurseries to thousands of vegetable starts that will feed families throughout the growing season. The sale featured an extensive selection of fruit, vegetable, herb, and perennial plants, with unique varieties that drew gardeners from across the state to 168 West Clifford Street in Providence.
The event’s success was powered by an extraordinary volunteer effort that included friends old and new, dedicated SCLT Board members, and corporate volunteers from Fidelity Investments and Care New England. Every staff member contributed to making the weekend run smoothly, from dawn setup crews to those who stayed until the last plant found its home. The positive energy was enhanced by talented musicians who provided the perfect soundtrack to the botanical celebration, keeping spirits high throughout both days.
As SCLT’s biggest fundraiser of the year, the Plant Sale proceeds directly support the organization’s community gardens and farms, education programs, and advocacy for equal access to healthy, affordable foods. The record attendance demonstrates a growing movement of people committed to local food justice, sustainability, and community-supported agriculture in Rhode Island.
The success of the weekend was made possible through generous partnerships with local businesses. Food donors including Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Blount Fine Foods, Seven Stars Bakery, BJ’s Wholesale, Krakatoa Garden LLC, and Costco provided sustenance for volunteers and staff throughout the two-day event. Local nurseries including Briggs Nursery, Blue Moon Nursery, Issimia Nursery, Blithewold, Homegrown RI, Stamp Farm, Central Nurseries, and Jacavone donated rare and unusual perennials that made the sale truly special.
The impact of the Plant Sale extends beyond the weekend itself. Remaining plants were donated to more than 20 community organizations and local producers, including libraries, community centers, gardens, and food justice organizations throughout Rhode Island. These donations ensure that the Plant Sale’s mission of promoting sustainable urban agriculture and green spaces continues to benefit communities across the state.
The electric energy and community support witnessed during the 33rd Annual Plant Sale has already generated excitement for next year’s event. Plant Sale enthusiasts can mark their calendars now for the 34th Annual Rare & Unusual Plant Sale, scheduled for May 16 & 17, 2026. With this year’s record-breaking success setting a new standard, the countdown to Plant Sale 2026 begins today!
