New attractions to highlight Sussex County annual Springfest

Augusta - The 10th annual award-winning Springfest Flower & Garden Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from March 10 through March 14 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. The show, often called “The Garden Lover’s Flower Show, will feature exhibits by more than 50 regional garden, landscaping, commercial and educational exhibitors. New attractions for the 10th anniversary show include: • Horticulture hall: New, 4,200 square feet of displays. • Master gardener horticulture information desk: The first 500 visitors on Saturday will receive the new Rutgers Cooperative Research & Extension CD-ROM filled with practical advice on a wide range of topics. • Garden Café: Expanded menu for lunch or snacks in the new dining terrace. • Window box design competition: The first of many future competitive horticultural events. • Fine art show and sale: Featuring botanical illustrations and floral and landscape paintings. • 10th anniversary garden display: Visitors can see how the show has grown. • Expanded marketplace with more shopping opportunities. Visitors can browse through shops and displays for every outdoor living need from plants and seeds to spas, outdoor kitchens and garden gifts. Exhibits by professionals such as arborists, irrigation and lighting experts, landscape designers and pest management specialists will offer advice to both amateur and experienced gardeners. • A display of hybrid vehicles with an environmental theme, will be presented by Sussex Honda, primary sponsor of Springfest. “This show is unique among garden shows,” said David H Wright, Springfest president, “since it is not-for-profit with proceeds dedicated to scholarships and agricultural education. It is produced by the non-profit Agricultural Division/Sussex County Farm & Horse Show as well as through dedicated volunteers and generous supporters that share a passion for gardening.” Last year, Springfest attracted more than 8,000 visitors from the tri-state area. Admission to Springfest is $8 for adults; children under 12 free; senior citizens $6. Monday, March 13, is “Senior Citizen Day,” seniors over age 65 will be admitted for $5. Tuesday, March 14, is “Discount Day,” $6 admission plus special items on sale in the Springfest boutique. For information on the Springfest or the March 11 fundraiser, call 973-948-9448 or log on to.springfestgardenshow.org.