Time to buy some plants!

In much of the rest of the country, the best time to buy plants is spring, and I must admit I'm always tempted to changes things around in the garden that time of year. But really, the best time to plant in most of California is fall, right before or during the first rainfall. The plants have an opportunity to grow healthy roots and won't mind a low-water regimen in the summer (though I always supplement a little bit). And the best thing? Plant sales everywhere!

• Gold Rush Nursery has an open house and sale this weekend and next. They have both California natives and other plants well suited to our climate. I especially like that they have a lot of plants that are rarely seen anywhere else - and I do hope I'll make it over there next weekend. Part of the proceeds benefit the Multiple Myeloma Foundation.  
• Annie's Annuals has their biggest sale ever - everything 25% off. I love their variety as well, and they package so carefully (and environmentally friendly) that I never bother driving there - much easier to sit at home, put in my order, and wait for the goods. 
• Last but not least, most (if not all) California Native Plant Society (CNPS) chapters have fall sales. The Santa Clara Valley chapter will have their sale on October 20 at Hidden Villa (10-4). They will sell plants, bulbs, and books, and will have a talk about Gardening with Natives. 
• And finally (copied here from a comment) The Native Plant Sale on the Country Mouse side of the hill is on Saturday October 13.
  
  CNPS/Arboretum members can enter at 10, the rest of the world at noon, sale closes at 4. UCSC Arboretum has a huge sale of natives and Mediterranean plants at the same time and place - the Eucalyptus grove, 1156 High Street --opposite Western Drive-- Santa Cruz CA 95065. Two great sales, two great organizations - one happy bunch of shoppers.

Ah, I can't wait to get my plants, put them in after the first rains, and see them big and healthy when spring arrives.