Petunia Parade exceeds fundraising goal for new watering truck

September 14, 2026

The current Petunia Parade watering truck that will be replaced.

LUDINGTON — The Ludington Petunia Parade has exceeded its fundraising goal to purchase a newer watering truck used to maintain more than 32,400 petunias planted throughout the city each year.

The Petunia Parade board launched the Watering Truck Capital Campaign to replace its existing truck with a newer, more reliable vehicle capable of handling daily watering during the growing season.

“The overwhelming response from donors demonstrates their commitment to preserving this beloved project for future generations,” Petunia Parade Board Co-Chair Cathy Webster said. “We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from donors in our community as well as from people across the country. Every contribution was integral in helping us achieve this goal.”

The board is now searching for a truck that meets the organization’s needs and hopes to make a purchase before the end of the year.

The watering truck is used throughout the growing season to maintain the flower beds along Ludington Avenue and at the Ludington Municipal Marina.

The Ludington Petunia Parade was founded in 1988 by Ellery and Sue Sabin. Each year, hundreds of volunteers help plant, water, weed and maintain the petunias.

Although the campaign has reached its original fundraising goal, the organization will continue accepting donations. Additional money raised will be placed toward future maintenance and equipment upgrades for the watering truck.

Donations may be made online at www.ludingtonpetuniaparade.com or by mail, with “Watering Truck” designated on the check memo.

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