The Garden Conference & Expo will be held at the Burton Coliseum in Lake Charles, LA. Proceeds from the entrance fee to benefit the SW LA Master Gardener Program. The festival has much to offer those interested in vegetable gardening, flower gardening and display, and lawn care.

Plants and Everything Garden Related

The festival showcases many and varied vendors ranging from the local non-profit horticultural clubs, Master Gardeners, 4-H members to for-profit businesses selling vegetable plants, flowers, trees, shrubs, herbs, soil enhancers, plant containers, lawn and garden ornaments, outdoor furniture and decorating items. We expect more than 60 different vendors selling everything garden or lawn related.

Gumbo Night Preview Party

On Thursday night, March 23, from 6 to 8 pm, the Southwest Master Gardeners will host a gumbo supper open to all who wish a sneak preview of the show and a chance to win auction items. Admission is $10, which covers entrance, gumbo and preview of show. You may purchase tickets early from any Master Gardener or at the AgCenter on Gulf Hwy. Tickets will also be available at the Burton Coliseum south door that night.

Garden Clubs' Flower Show

The Louisiana Garden Club Federation District 7 holds their annual small standard Flower Show in conjunction with the Garden Fest. Garden club members from Lake Charles, Sulphur, Iowa, and Crowley compete in horticulture and floral designs. The exhibits are judged by National Garden Clubs' standards and held for display during the entire Garden Fest.

Plant Health Clinic

Local Master Gardeners will man a Plant Health booth at the festival. Bring in your sickly and/or bug infested leaves for help in diagnosing the problem and getting pointers for correcting the situation. Just be sure and encase the specimen in a sealed plastic baggie to ensure the problems won't be passed along to others.

Instructional Presentations

Knowledgeable horticulturists will be presenting talks about the latest and greatest plant selections, gardening practices, weed control, and pest management. The talks are held in the Chalkley Room and are presented free to any interested festival attendee.

Date:
Preview Party: March 23, 2023
Expo: March 24-25, 2023

Cost: $3.00 at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free.

Location:
Burton Coliseum,
7001 Gulf Highway,
Lake Charles, LA 70607.

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