It’s getting warmer. Here are some ideas for spring

UNC CHARLOTTE

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens have a new trail with natural terrain and slopes.

As spring approaches, here are several places in Charlotte to enjoy nature’s beauty and the warmer weather.

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, 9090 Craver Road

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens recently introduced a newly surfaced trail extending from Bonnie Cone’s historic homestead site into the Glen. The path allows limited mobility access to parts of the garden. However, due to the natural terrain and slopes, it is not fully ADA compliant. Parking is available in East Deck 1.

The annual spring plant sale will be held April 10, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and April 11 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road

Recently rebranded from The Gardens at Stowe, this scenic destination spans hundreds of acres with formal display gardens, woodland trails, and a large orchid conservatory. Trails connect up to 8 miles to the Carolina Thread Trail. Featured areas include the Four Seasons Garden, Canal Garden, Perennial Garden, and the children’s garden, Lost Hollow.

Uptown Farmers Market, 300 Davidson St.

Located in Charlotte’s central business district, the weekly Saturday market operates from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during spring and summer. Vendors offer fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and handmade goods.

Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, 1801 Yorkmont Road.

Operated by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, the market features produce, meats, baked goods, plants, and crafts. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Spring trails

Little Sugar Creek Greenway, 1133 Metropolitan Ave.

The greenway stretches more than 17 miles from Brevard Street toward the South Carolina state line, connecting sections of the Cross Charlotte Trail. Ideal for walking, running, and biking.

Seven Oaks Preserve Trail, 6900 S. New Hope Road

Located near Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, this approximately five-mile loop trail takes about two hours to complete.

Latta Nature Preserve, 6345 Sample Road

Offers multiple trail options ranging from short one-mile walks to longer 6.5-mile hikes, making it accessible for various skill levels.

Garden shops and resources

Blackhawk Hardware & Garden, 4225 Park Road

At the Park Road Shopping Center there is a local favorite for home and garden supplies, plants, and unique gifts. Staff are known for being welcoming and helpful, especially for beginner gardeners.

Oakdale Greenhouses LLC, 5626 Statesville Road

One of Charlotte’s largest retail greenhouses, offering tropical plants, succulents, bonsai, landscaping plants, and aquatic features such as koi fish.

For gardening assistance, contact the Mecklenburg County Extension Master Gardener Program at (980) 314-1409 or [email protected].

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