PARIS – McLaughlin Gardens and Horticultural Center will hold its season-opening plant sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 8 and 9, at the center, 97 Main St., South Paris. The plant sale will specialize in wildflowers and perennials.

At that time, the center’s wildflower collection is expected to be in bloom. Volunteers will be available to answer questions and help transport plants to cars. Also included will be a planting technique workshop with Kristin Perry at 11 a.m.

Tours of the garden will be offered hourly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The gift shop and house will be open. A light lunch will be available. People are being asked to park along Western Avenue.
Workshop on ailing plants scheduled
PARIS – The McLaughlin Foundation Garden and Horticultural Center will present “First Aid for Houseplants” from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, April 28, at the McLaughlin Foundation, 97 Main St. South Paris.

People are being encouraged to bring “botanical patients” to this diagnosis and treatment workshop for indoor plants. It will cost $7, nonmembers, and $5 for members. Pre-registration is required. People can register by calling 743-8820.
21st annual Gem and Mineral Show set for Portland
PORTLAND – The Maine Mineralogical & Geological Society will hold its 21st annual Gem and Mineral Show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 22 and 23, at the Finley Gym at the University of New England, 716 Stevens Ave.

Featured will be dealers presenting jewelry, gems and minerals, rough stone, fossils, children’s attractions, demonstrations, a silent auction, displays and door prizes.

The show will offer children a “mini-mine,” a mineral wheel of fortune, a hands-on mineral exhibit and coloring area.

There will be a fluorescent mineral display, gold panning exhibit and stone cutting demonstrations.

All attending qualify for hourly door prizes and the grand prize drawing on Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

Admission for adults is $4, seniors and teens under 18, $3; children 12 and under free. For more information, call Wes Baker at 784-1738.