Manatee County Jail Hosts Plant Sale to Support Inmate Rehabilitation Program

Residents looking to add greenery to their homes and gardens have the opportunity to support a unique rehabilitation initiative at the Manatee County Jail. The facility is hosting a plant sale featuring a wide selection of flowers and plants grown by inmates participating in the Leading Inmates to Future Employment (LIFE) Program.

The LIFE Program provides inmates with hands-on horticulture experience, helping them develop valuable job skills for reintegration into the workforce. All proceeds from the plant sales directly fund the program, ensuring its continued success in providing educational and vocational training.

The plant sale is regularly held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the jail farm, located at 14470 Harlee Road, Palmetto, FL 34221. To accommodate demand, an additional sale day has been scheduled for Saturday, March 15, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m..

Shoppers can choose from an assortment of 1-gallon plants for $2, as well as 3-gallon plants and hanging baskets for $5. Available varieties include Million Bells hanging baskets, lantana, crotons, succulents, vinca, verbena, petunias, geraniums, begonias, ficus trees, and more. Payment is accepted via credit or debit card and check; cash transactions are not permitted.

The initiative provides inmates with meaningful work experience while offering the community an affordable way to beautify their homes. For those unable to visit during the week, the special Saturday sale offers a convenient opportunity to support the program and take home high-quality plants at a great price.