Integrating more native plants into our gardens and managed landscapes is today’s model for being ecologically smart. But creating beautiful and vibrant landscapes  that emphasize native species requires so much more than simply substituting indigenous plants for our old favorite horticultural exotics. This program takes an in-depth look at how to successfully garden with native plants in order to create landscapes that have genuine ecological value. We explore the need to understand your site, to take advantage of unique adaptations of different species, to learn from plant communities, and how best to utilize ecological processes. Along the way, we examine common myths and misconceptions, and share tips for sourcing native plants. Learn more about how to create beautiful gardens that use native plants successfully and to their best advantage!

Claudia’s Biography:

Ms. Thompson founded Grow Native Massachusetts in 2010, and her work leading the growth of this nonprofit throughout its first decade led to her become recognized nationally as a leader in the native plant movement. She has taught hundreds of programs throughout New England informed by her work as a landscape ecologist and her extensive career in the environmental sector— including working as the Director of Education for the Appalachian Mountain Club, Director of Drumlin Farm for Mass Audubon, and serving on the board of the New England Wild Flower Society. She is a strong advocate for the importance of land stewardship on all lands and believes that conservation begins at home. Claudia’s happiest moments are spent in her own gardens, watching the wide variety of birds—from hawks to migrating songbirds, and even rare species such as woodcocks— all taking sustenance and utilizing the habitat she and her husband have created on a small parcel in urban Cambridge. Learn more about her work at www.claudiagthompson.com.