Ames Fall Plant Sale at Reiman Gardens: Perennials, Shrubs & Fall Annuals

Read the full experience

When September arrives in Ames, Iowa, gardeners and plant lovers head to Reiman Gardens for the Fall Plant Sale, a three-day event that turns the garden's paths into a marketplace of color, texture, and practical advice. Held this year on Tuesday September 1 from 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, Wednesday September 2 from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Thursday September 3 from 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, the sale is rain or shine, requires no preregistration, and has no admission fee to shop. This is not a generic plant fair. Tables are stocked with sun and shade perennials selected for the Upper Midwest, woody shrubs including hardy specimens and Buck roses known for late-season blooms, a curated selection of fall annuals that keep containers bright, and houseplants plus tropicals for indoor green thumbs. You’ll also find end-of-season specials that reward early shoppers and bargain hunters. Credit card, check, and cash are accepted; because this is a fundraiser, all sales are final. Part of what makes the sale special is its timing. Early September is an excellent planting window: cooler soil and steadier moisture help perennials and shrubs establish roots before winter. The event attracts local gardeners, volunteer staff, and plant experts from the community, so it’s as much about conversation and how-to tips as it is about commerce. Bring a list of sun conditions and a rough measure of your planting beds to match varieties to spots that will thrive next spring. Practical logistics are straightforward. Reiman Gardens serves as the meeting point and sales hub; expect a mix of organized tables and pop-up displays. Shoppers often arrive with wagons or reusable trays to move pots, and volunteers are around to help lift larger specimens. Because the sale runs during extended weekday hours, you can plan a late-afternoon visit after work or an early morning stroll before the crowds. For visitors who want to extend the experience, browsing the plant labels will highlight species that support pollinators and local ecology - look for perennials that attract bees and butterflies. The event supports local groups through its proceeds, making purchases both a garden investment and a community contribution. Whether you’re replacing tired annuals, hunting for a new shrub to anchor a border, or stocking up on houseplants for the coming darker months, the Fall Plant Sale at Reiman Gardens offers practical choices, knowledgeable people, and a compact, friendly marketplace that celebrates the season and helps gardens transition into autumn. Plan to bring sturdy boxes or a folding cart, wear closed-toe shoes for muddy paths, and pack a cooler if you purchase perennials that need shade during the drive home. Take advantage of volunteer expertise - ask about winter care, pruning, and siting to ensure healthy plants next spring, and enjoy.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1–2 hours.

Fitness level

Household mobility is sufficient; expect light walking and occasional lifting with volunteer help available.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to preregister or buy admission to shop?

No preregistration is required and there is no admission fee to shop at the Fall Plant Sale.

What payment methods are accepted?

Credit card, check, and cash are accepted at the sale.

Are sales final?

Yes. As a fundraiser, all sales are final, so inspect plants before purchase and ask volunteers about returns policy.

Will staff help load large plants?

Volunteers are present and can assist with lifting larger specimens, but bringing a wagon or helper is recommended.

Is the sale canceled for rain?

No. The Fall Plant Sale is held rain or shine; dress for the conditions and wear appropriate footwear.

What types of plants are available?

Expect sun and shade perennials, woody shrubs including Buck roses, fall annuals, houseplants, tropicals, and select end-of-season specials.

Local insights

Wildlife

native bees
butterflies

History

The Fall Plant Sale is a seasonal fundraiser event held at Reiman Gardens that brings together local gardeners, volunteers, and plant experts.

Conservation

Proceeds support local groups; labels often identify species that benefit pollinators and encourage climate-appropriate plant choices.

About Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers year-round horticultural displays, seasonal events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities that engage families, students, and garden enthusiasts. The facility hosts a variety of public experiences including speaker series, guided and self-guided tours, hands-on youth day camps, and specialized workshops such as dried floral wreath making and floral design. Signature experiences include the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing — open daily and featuring up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species — plus seasonal highlights like Butterfly Blizzard and Nature at NIGHT. Reiman Gardens programs combine accessible outdoor activities with instructional series and community-focused nights. Regular offerings include Nature with Nathan, a six-part entomology speaker series; Rovers at Reiman dog-friendly evenings; Garden Flow six-week gentle stretching sessions; Nature Journaling workshops; and members-only Wednesday walking club access. Community events range from Autumn Equinox Gothic Soiree (ages 18+) to Trivia Nights, Maker Nights, and seasonal forest bathing walks. Volunteer roles support Spirits in the Gardens (October 10–12), Pumpkin Prep, Butterfly Wing docent training, seasonal gardening and displays, and group volunteer opportunities. Reiman Gardens also offers admissions options, guided tours for youth and adults, and special previews like RG Express and Bonsai Show Member Preview. All program descriptions, schedules, and registration details are published by Reiman Gardens; visitors should consult official listings for dates, age requirements, and availability. Members' Wednesday Walking Club meets Wednesday mornings and provides access to the Butterfly Wing and Conservatory beginning at 9:00 AM, offering a quieter visit and the chance to see horticulturalists at work.

Base locationAmes, Iowa

Tours offered31+

Adventure tips

Bring a cart or boxesWagons and sturdy boxes make loading multiple pots far easier and protect plants during transport.

Note sun and soilMeasure your planting spots and note morning versus afternoon sun so you pick perennials suited to each location.

Prepare for weatherThe sale is rain or shine—wear closed-toe shoes and pack a light rain jacket for muddy paths.

Payments and final salesCredit card, check, and cash are accepted; all sales are final because proceeds support local groups.

Recommended gear

Folding wagon or cart: Makes transporting multiple pots and heavy shrubs from tables to your vehicle much easier.
Sturdy boxes or trays: Protects plant pots from tipping and keeps root balls secure during the drive home.
Closed-toe shoes: Provides traction on potentially muddy paths and protects feet while carrying plants.
Notebook and pen: Record plant names, planting notes, and care instructions from volunteers to reference later.