Heaven Hill welcomes the season with gardening advice and games for kids

Vernon — Heaven Hill Farm holds its 10th annual Spring Fling on Saturday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is an opportunity to see thousands of blooming flowers, shrubs and trees and a vibrant collection of custom planted containers and hanging baskets. Product representatives from Scotts, Beyer and Ortho will be on hand to share gardening tips, including how and when to fertilize, appropriate plant selection and how to prevent weeds, bugs and animals in the garden this summer by taking measures now. The Potting Station will fill pots with thrillers, fillers and spillers in one of the many pots offered for sale. The resident container specialist will be available to offer advice on full sun versus shade containers as well as design suggestions. Visitors can select from a variety of annuals and perennials and allow a garden designer to assist in creating an arrangement. Youngsters can visit with farm animals, challenge a friend to a friendly duck race, try mining for gem stones at the new sluice and even plant their very own complimentary Marigold. Some of summer’s favorite grilled snacks will be available hot off one of Heaven Hill’s Weber grills. Visitors can also taste local jams, jellies and honey, and free samples of Heaven Hill’s own baked goods and select beverages offered by Coke. New this year: a special grouping of local “nature” artisans including a floral, landscape and “barnscape” photographer, a local trail guide author and an exterior designer will be available, displaying their wares and offering product information. “Outdoor living enthusiasts don’t have to spend time and gas going to each individual garden center. They can come to this one place to get a good selection for all of their outdoor living wants and needs,” said Phyllis Emmerich, outdoor lifestyles manager. “Our outdoor furniture showroom has grown to more than 4,000 square feet of floor space making our selection the largest and most diverse in Northern Jersey and Orange County, New York.” Heaven Hill Farm is located at 451 Route 94, in Vernon. For more information and directions, call Heaven Hill Farm 973-764-5144 or www.heavenhillfarm.com.