Learn how to create a beautiful, sustainable landscape that supports pollinators, wildlife, and the health of your local ecosystem. This four-session workshop series explores the benefits of native plants, practical strategies for designing and maintaining sustainable landscapes, and ways to reduce water use and maintenance while creating vibrant outdoor spaces.
Session 1: Ecological Foundations & Why Native Plants Matter
Explore the ecological importance of native plants and how home landscapes can help address challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Learn how native landscapes support pollinators and wildlife, reduce maintenance and water use, and rethink traditional lawn and landscape practices while integrating other garden goals like flowers and vegetables.
Speaker Panel: Carla Glassman and Alison Hutchens Skagit Conservation District, Madeleine Dupuy, Bob Gillespie, Bonnie Trent, Sean Howard.
Session 2: Getting Started with Sustainable Landscaping
Learn practical steps for planning and installing a native plant landscape in suburban, urban, rural, or container settings. Topics include selecting appropriate plants, designing for four-season interest and habitat value, planting techniques, sourcing native plants, and blending sustainable landscaping with existing garden goals.
Speaker: Lisa Miller Founder, Consultant, Principle Designer, Eco-Restore Consulting and Design LLC
Session 3: Sustainable Landscape Maintenance Discover how to care for native landscapes using sustainable maintenance practices. Topics include pruning for plant health, proper mulching techniques, mowing strategies that support healthier lawns and wildlife habitat, and thoughtful water conservation practices.
Speaker: Loren Fuell, ISA Certified Arborist
Session 4: Field Trip
Join us for a guided field trip to observe sustainable landscaping principles in practice and gain inspiration from established native plant landscapes. (10am - 1pm)
Speaker: Loren Fuell, ISA Certified Arborist
