VanDusen Garden's plant sale: 4 tips for gardeners

The VanDusen Botanical Garden's annual plant sale takes place on Sunday, and thousands of eager gardeners are expected to be on hand to snap up the 40,000 plants on sale.

Here are four tips to help you bring home the plants you want.

1. Bring something to carry your plants in. Although there will be designated areas to keep the plants you want to buy, a wheelbarrow or bag is recommended to ensure you can grab your items quickly and move on to the next one.

2. Ask an expert. Don't know if your plant needs a lot of sun or extra shade? There will be designated garden volunteers who specialize in specific flora types at each station. Ask the experts as many questions as you need.

3. The early bird gets the plant. With 6,000 to 10,000 people expected at this year's sale, the only way to make sure you get the plants you want is to get there first. In the past, lineups have started as early as 7 a.m. PT, and the same is expected this year.

4. Take advantage of the free garden. Once you've finished with all your plant shopping, make sure to take advantage of VanDusen's free entrance all day.

The sale is on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Great Lawn of the garden, and admission is free.