WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – Woodbury’s most unusual flower and plant sale is taking place this month on the grounds of the Ramsey County Correctional Facility.
The facility at Century Avenue and Valley Creek Road, just to the west of Woodbury, is still known to many people by its outdated name, “the workhouse.” Once a working farm, the facility now boasts greenhouses in its rural setting.
In the depths of February’s cold, offenders sentenced to community service join with master gardeners and Volunteers in Corrections to plant seeds and rooted cuttings in the warm greenhouses. Their care and green thumbs are obvious in the Spring when they offer full baskets, pots, and flats for sale.
The annuals, perennials, and herbs are sold to the public, while supplies last, on Thursdays through Sundays in May.
Prices are competitive and even lower than some commercial growers. A quarter of the purchase price is tax deductible because that’s how much the sale of each plant’s profits benefit Volunteers in Correction. The money is used to fund scholarships, grants, and programs to support individuals in leading healthy successful lives after incarceration.
The entrance to the sale is off of Century Avenue with parking next to the sale greenhouses. Shoppers choose their brightly colored-flowers inside with warm greetings and information from volunteers. Help with carry-out and curb-side pick-up are available. Weather and growing conditions impact the sale schedule so it is good to check the latest information here.
