By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–On Saturday, April 1, the Helena Beautification Board hosted its annual Planting Day in Old Town Helena.

During the event, volunteers were able to learn how to plant the hanging baskets and pole planters that have become a symbol of springtime in Helena all the while helping plant out all of the baskets that will be used in Old Town and city hall.

A total of 56 baskets were planted this year using 340 plants of different varieties. Annuals were also planted during the event in six new planters placed as a centerpiece for Old Town. To learn more about the plants used for the Old Town baskets, visit Helenabeautiful.com/baskets.html.

The event wasn’t just about planting the baskets as volunteers also were able to learn about and plant 108 native perennials of 13 different varieties as a part of finishing the Old Town strip project that started in March.

“It is exciting to be able to plant different plants giving the city different color combinations throughout the season, all with being able to educate the residents on plants that will thrive in Alabama,” Beautification Board Vice Chairman Brian Puckett said.

The Beautification Board was able to work alongside Dr. Jason Powell of Petals from the Past in Jemison, Alabama and native perennial expert, Dr. Sue Webb to determine the best native perennials to place in the city.

Staying with the Beautification Board’s mission of improving plant and planting education for the residents of Helena, new plant markers were placed throughout the city. Each plant type planted by the board received a new sign placed that tells the plant name and displays a QR code. Onlookers are able to scan the QR code with their mobile device to learn more about the plant and easy tips to plant their own.

The Helena Beautification Board is an appointed board of the Helena City Council. The board believes that people and places are profoundly connected and thriving communities are rooted in individual responsibility and action. They host a variety of opportunities for the community to come together and serve each year. Events are posted on the Helena Beautiful Facebook page and announced via Twitter at @TweetHomeHelena.