(AP) — A plant sale billed as the Midwest’s largest gardening event will take place in Lincoln.

More than 500 plant varieties will be offered at the Spring Affair event on April 26 at the Lancaster County Events Center. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

University of Nebraska-Lincoln horticulture specialist Kim Todd says this year’s events will focus on the importance of gardens as far more than just places of beauty. Todd says gardens have become increasingly important for ecological diversity, pollination and wildlife habitats.

Admission to the sale is free.