by REBEKAH PIERCE
As the air turns just a little bit crisper and we inch closer to winter, it’s time, once again, for the Highlands County Garden Festival. Since its modest beginnings, this day (much like the plants it celebrates!) has blossomed into a vibrant event, drawing plant lovers and curious families alike.
Judith Bentley is the driving force behind this festival, which started in 2018. A retired attorney with the Social Security Administration, she swapped her briefcase for gardening gloves in 2017. Shortly after, she embraced a new chapter as a Master Gardener Volunteer. Today, with fellow green thumbs Mary Meier and Julie Gardener, Bentley has transformed a simple plant sale into a rich tapestry of flora, fun, and community spirit.
The goal of the trio? It’s simple: to strengthen community ties while offering affordable native plants, all while funding the Master Gardener Volunteer programs. According to Bentley, the Master Gardener Volunteer Program provides multiple services to the community, including, “scholarships, monthly educational classes, and mobile help desks.”
What to Expect at the 2024 Highlands County Garden Festival
Each year, the team raises the bar even further for the event. So what’s new this year? Attendees can expect the following:
- Sales of Native and Exotic Plants: Discover new varieties alongside classic favorites like begonias and orchids.
- Additional Vendors: Explore over 80 booths featuring handmade items, art, and community non-profits.
- Hands-On Classes: Learn about propagation, tomato growing, and enjoy a feature from Archbold Biological Station.
- Entertainment for All Ages: Delight in musical performances, raffles, a new kids’ area with succulent potting activities. Expect multiple food trucks along with performances from Harry Havery, Jamie Tremps, and M Squared.
- Agricultural Advice: Meet Highlands County Extension Agents ready to share their expertise.
Bentley is particularly excited about the introduction of some new plants for this year, including the bleeding heart vine, spider hibiscus, Panama rose, jackfruit, guava, okra tree, and much more.
There’s Even More to Come
In addition to the 80 vendors she already has signed up for, Bentley expects more to do so soon. “There will also be nonprofit agencies discussing the services they provide for the community and animal rescue entities with animals for adoption. Class offerings will include presentations on propagation and tomatoes, as well as a presentation by Archbold Biological Station,” she adds.
The festival’s organizers, which work all year to bring this event to life, welcome suggestions and feedback from attendees. In this, it is an event that is truly reflective of the community’s needs. In a truly symbiotic fashion, proceeds from the event in turn go back to benefit the community.
“The festival allows us to provide scholarships and educational opportunities throughout the year,” says Bentley. “We are also able to offer assistance for the community through demonstrating best practices for Florida-friendly gardening…the entertainment and camaraderie bring our community together and enrich all of us.”
Whether you’re a burgeoning green thumb yourself or simply interested in a fun-filled day with the family, the Highlands County Garden Festival promises something for everyone. Come for the plants, stay for the people, and leave with memories that will bloom long after.
