Clarkdale, Arizona (Sept. 25, 2025) -- The seasonal cultivation of plants at the Yavapai College Verde Valley Campus Greenhouse has turned into a boon for lovers of all things green in the form of a charming, self-serve plant cart.

The European market-style cart, located just outside the greenhouse, offers surplus student-grown plants at affordable prices. The plant cart, which opened in August, was suggested by past horticulture students who wanted to share their excess plants with the community. “The cart makes that possible while also heightening awareness of the horticulture classes offered at the Verde Campus,” said Verde Campus Associate Dean Heather Mulcaire.

Each semester, greenhouse and garden beds are refreshed for new classes, leaving behind plants and flowers ready for new homes. The cart provides a simple and sustainable way to connect those resources with the community, Mulcaire said.

The cart was designed and built by Adjunct Carpentry Instructor Paul Grasso and his students, showcasing cross-program collaboration and hands-on learning.

On a recent weekday morning, the double-decker stand was stocked with red yucca, coleus, and pepper starts, each available for just $2. Visitors can pay with cash using an attached till or scan a QR code to make a digital payment.

Fresh-cut flowers also will be available seasonally at the plant cart and/or at the Southwest Wine Center. They will be offered in a variety of bouquet sizes ranging from $5 to $15, depending on weather conditions and abundance.

The plant cart is supported by Kristin Varon-Burkhart, Career and Technical Education Coordinator for the Verde Valley Campus, who stocks the cart and arranges bouquets. “I’ve seen a bouquet brighten someone’s day,” Kristin said, noting that community members have appreciated the accessibility and affordability of the plants.

The Verde Valley Campus plant cart is designed to be more of a community service than it is a revenue generator, Kristin acknowledged. But all proceeds do benefit the horticulture program. “If the cart draws more students into our horticulture classes, or into any of our other career and technical education programs that’s a bonus,” she said.

Community members can stay updated on cart offerings by signing up for notifications by scanning the QR code on the plant cart, or by visiting yc.edu/STC.

Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.