Every other year, we host an additional series of classes to help folks new to the native plant and conservation world learn about planting with our local ecology in mind. This is a seven‑class program led by local experts who bring passion, experience, and a deep commitment to ecological landscaping. The entire series is free and open to the public. Attend when you can!
Here are this year’s programs:
- February 16, 5:30-7pm
- What is Ecological Gardening?
- Haley Hamblen, Water Quality Specialist – RainSmart Program Manager, City of Chattanooga, Public Works / Engineering
- March 16, 5:30-7pm
- Native Plants’ Sociability: How to think in terms of plant communities
- Lena Hall, Chair of Certificate of Native Plants, Volunteering and Public Programs – Tennessee Valley Chapter of Wild Ones
- May 18, 5:30-7pm
- How to Plant a Plant: It’s likely not what you’ve been doing
- Bill Moll, Active Ecological Gardener, long-time member of Tennessee Valley Chapter of Wild Ones
- June 15, 5:30-7pm
- Site Preparation: Considering the ecological factors
- Jared Odell, Ecologist, CEO/Founder of Tierra Environmental Consulting and Rosy Harpe, Sustainable Landscape Ecologist and Conservation Manager with WaterWays
- August 17, 5:30-7pm
- Plant Selection for Continuous Blooming: Right plant, right place
- Jared Odell, Ecologist, CEO/Founder of Tierra Environmental Consulting and Rosy Harpe, Sustainable Landscape Ecologist and Conservation Manager with WaterWays
- September 21, 5:30-7pm
- Ecological Gardening Maintenance: Are you a referee or a jail-keeper?
- Lyn Rutherford, Natural Resource Supervisor, City of Chattanooga, Department of Parks & Outdoors
- December 14, 5:30-7pm
- Saving Seeds from the Tennessee Valley and Winter Sowing
- Jonathan Nicholson, Board Member of Tennessee Valley Chapter of Wild Ones