Augusta - Winter-weary gardening enthusiasts from the tri-state area will gather at the Springfest Flower and Garden Show starting at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta for an evening titled, “Springfest: A Celebration of Horticulture,” featuring Ken Druse. Druse, often called “America’s favorite gardener,” is an organic gardener, award-winning author of 16 books, photographer, designer, and host of the Sirius satellite radio show Ken Druse - RealDirt. Druse says his mission is to inspire and empower others to make gardening part of a balanced life, and to enhance their community through taking care of their piece of the earth. Druse received the Sarah Chapman Francis Medal for “Literary Achievement” from the Garden Club of America in April 2004. The lifetime award was presented for his work communicating about gardening and the environment. He speaks to sold-out audiences around the country and is expected to similarly inspire Springfest attendees with his original presentation. Springfest, also known as “The Garden Lover’s Show,” will run March 10 to March 14 in the warmth of the Fairground’s Conservatory. This is the 10th anniversary of the event. The evening will begin at 5 p.m. with Druse guiding ticket holders on a private tour of Springfest garden displays. During the tour, visitors, exhibit designers and vendors will visit with Druse as he points out special plants and design ideas. Druse will present his lecture, “A Decade on an Island Garden,” at 6 p.m., sharing his photography, his passion for creating living art, and his extensive knowledge of plants. A book signing will follow at 7 p.m., with his best-selling books offered at a discount to those who register for the event. Visitors may also participate in the 10th annual Springfest Scholarship Gala, starting at 7 p.m.. The gala will feature catered hors d’oeuvres throughout the garden exhibits, an open bar and buffet dinner. The Skylands Youth Symphony will perform prior to the scholarship presentation. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the non-profit Springfest Agricultural Scholarship Fund. Reservations for the private tour with lecture may be purchased separately for $25. Scholarship Gala tickets are $40. A discount package for the entire evening is available for $60. Seating is limited. Advance tickets are requested and may be purchased by calling 973-948-9448, or send reservation form, available on line at springfestgardenshow.org Springfest, produced by the non-profit Agricultural Division / The Sussex County Farm & Horse Show is chartered to promote and educate the community in all forms of agriculture. Support for Springfest is provided primarily by Sussex Honda and by Bev and Bruce Gordon.