We are launching our inaugural Sassafras Awards to celebrate local native gardens and their stewards in the Knoxville community and raise awareness about the importance of native plants.
​We have new judges every year and they will review the applications and agree on their favorite 3 for the residential garden and 3 for the public garden categories by June 5th. Finalist will give site tours to the judges throughout June. There will be a total of 6 gardens (3 residential and 3 public) that will be selected for group guided tours, but only one winner for each category. If you applied in past years, I have your application. Let me know if you are interested in applying again.
Our Mission
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Native Plant Rescue Squad (NPRS) is an educational non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the rich diversity of the native flora in East Tennessee. NPRS works with entities such as builders, developers, and landowners to rescue native plants that would otherwise be destroyed during clearing, building, and development. The rescued plants are then made available for educational opportunities and restoration projects with the goal of increasing the overall ecological health of our region.
We house our rescued plants at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, 2778 Wimpole Ave, Knoxville, TN 37914. From the main office, drive a little further down Wimpole and park in the grass across from the Martha Ashe Garden. You’ll see a sign pointing to NPRS and the Pollinator Pods. We’re located at the Stone Greenhouse (#4 on the map).
If you’re interested in purchasing plants, you’re welcome to visit anytime and shop at your own pace. I do not have to be present. Plants are priced, and payment can be made via the posted QR codes, through our website, or leave a check or cash in a hidden place. Just send me a photo of the hiding place: 731-610-6984
Our home
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