This year marks a remarkable milestone, the 50th anniversary of Desert Botanical Garden biannual Plant Sale. Since its humble beginnings in 1976 with just 4,600 plants, the event has blossomed into a beloved community tradition featuring more than 30,000 plants and supporting the Garden’s mission of conservation, education and research.
Volunteers have been at the heart of the sale from the start, and their dedication continues to shape the experience for thousands of shoppers each year.
Over the decades, plant preferences have evolved, yet the community’s love for native and desert-adapted species has remained constant.
Favorites such as milkweed, adeniums, Totem Pole cactus, Boojum trees, ocotillos and flowering cactus continue to reflect a deep appreciation for plants that thrive in the Sonoran Desert.
As the sale has grown, it has shifted locations within the Garden to accommodate its increasing scale, ultimately finding its home in the Events Plaza.
Half a century later, the Plant Sale remains a reliable and cherished tradition interrupted only a few times, including the 2020 cancelation due to COVID-19 pandemic. Today, it stands stronger than ever, offering an unparalleled selection and expert guidance for gardeners of all levels.
About This Year’s Spring Plant Sale
The Spring Plant Sale is just around the corner, come shop and transform your garden. This year’s event features thousands of native and desert-adapted plants, including succulents, trees, shrubs and flowering perennials. Plus, check out our section of Pot-bellied plants, defined by their distinctive, one-of-a-kind forms—no two are alike. Their unique growth patterns inspire surprise and admiration as they mature, adding character to any garden. Even with limited space, these plants are a perfect pairing with pots or training as bonsai. Be sure to explore the pottery tents, where talented artists will showcase one-of-a-kind ceramics designed to complement your new plants beautifully.
To help you plan, don’t miss the plant sale guide. It includes expert tips on developing shading strategies to protect your garden from intense summer heat, highlights top heat-tolerant trees and large shrubs, and features standout aloes and agaves along with essential care advice.
The Garden’s horticulture team will also be on-site throughout the event to help you select the right plants for your space and offer maintenance recommendations.
