Succulent Gardens Field Trip - Castroville

The Succulent Extravaganza consists of a two-day series of nursery tours, plus lectures and demos by area experts. Plus, it’s an opportunity to purchase plants. Their 7th annual Succulent Extravaganza is going to be held this year from 8am until 4pm on Friday Sept 29 and Saturday Sept 30 (notice this is not a Saturday/Sunday thing). Admission is free. This will be a drive-yourself event. People interested in carpooling should make their own arrangements. The event address is 2133 Elkhorn Rd, Castroville, CA, 95012, phone 831-632-0482. This is a few miles north of Salinas, and a little west of Hwy 101.

The folks at Succulent Gardens tell me that about 1000 people attend each day(!), so it sounds like it would be best to get there early to even get a decent parking spot. Parking attendants will show you where to park. I plan to arrive at their front entrance a little before 8am, for those who want to participate as a group. They also advise bringing a sun hat, camera, water, and your own wagon, given the crowds. Even though admission is free, the plants are not (darn it!), but you can pay by cash, check, or credit card. They sell a wide variety of succulents and cactus of all sizes. You can bring your own brown bag lunch if you like, but I understand a good taco truck will be available if you fancy that. They also recommend eating at the Haute Enchilada in Moss Landing afterwards, 831-633-5843. (I guess they have a thing for Mexican food!)

To learn more about the speakers, or see pictures and more info about what to expect at Succulent Gardens, please visit their web site at sgplants.com, or on Facebook at Succulent Gardens Nursery, or in Instagram at "succulentgardens", or on Twitter at @succulentgard. See you there!