SAWS to distribute free WaterSaver plants Saturday at Spring Bloom event under Stage 3 drought rules
What’s happening
San Antonio Water System (SAWS) will host its annual Spring Bloom gardening event on Saturday, March 14, offering free plants to early arrivals and providing education focused on water-efficient landscaping.
The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon at SAWS headquarters, 2800 U.S. 281 North. SAWS says the first 1,000 adult guests will receive a free WaterSaver plant.
How to get a free plant
SAWS has set the giveaway as a first-come distribution for adults attending in person. The utility has not announced a reservation or voucher system for the giveaway.
Arrive early: free plants are limited to the first 1,000 adult attendees.
Go to SAWS headquarters: 2800 U.S. 281 North, San Antonio.
Attend within event hours: 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 14.
What else will be offered at Spring Bloom
Beyond the giveaway, Spring Bloom is structured as a public education and shopping event aimed at residents planning spring landscape work. SAWS plans on-site presentations and access to staff and community experts in water and horticulture.
Plant sales from local vendors, including drought-tolerant ornamentals, native plants and herbs.
Opportunities to ask questions of conservation staff and other local experts about converting yards to lower-water-use landscapes.
Educational sessions on landscape preparation and resilient gardening practices suited to San Antonio’s climate conditions.
SAWS also says a Landscape Care Guide will be available at the event, with distribution limited to one per household.
Why the timing matters: drought restrictions remain in place
The event comes while SAWS customers remain under Stage 3 drought rules. Under Stage 3, landscape watering with an irrigation system, sprinkler or soaker hose is allowed only once per week during specified hours on a designated watering day tied to an address. Stage 3 also allows drip irrigation and tree bubbler zones on Mondays and Fridays during specified hours, while hand-held hose watering is allowed any time.
Stage 3 restrictions are tied to aquifer conditions: SAWS’ drought framework sets Stage 3 to begin when the 10-day rolling average of the Edwards Aquifer level reaches 640 feet mean sea level at the monitored well. SAWS has said watering restrictions have remained in effect since spring 2022 amid ongoing drought conditions.
Spring Bloom is a free public event focused on water-saving landscaping, drought-tolerant plant choices and practical garden guidance for local conditions.
Event basics
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to noon
Location: SAWS Headquarters, 2800 U.S. 281 North, San Antonio
Giveaway: free WaterSaver plant for the first 1,000 adult guests