"Native Plants: From the Wild to the Garden" - 36th Annual Lahr Native Plants Symposium
March 25, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Join Carolyn Summers and other native plant professionals at the Administration Building Auditorium, U.S. National Arboretum, for the 36th Annual Lahr Native Plants Symposium. At 11:00 a.m., Carolyn Summers will present "Natives in Design from Formal to Naturalistic," showcasing the use of native plants in formal front yards and more naturalistic mixed borders.
Register now at National Arboretum registration page to reserve your spot. View the full program and details at Native Plants: From the Wild to the Garden event page.
Open Garden Days Begin in May!
May 26–29 (Memorial Day Weekend) and June 9–12
All Tours by Appointment
Reserve your personal guided tour now by emailing us at: flyingtrillium@gmail.com. Can’t visit us in the spring? Look for more tour dates after July 15th. We look forward to your visit! Address and directions provided as tour appointments are confirmed. To plan driving time, we are located near the Neversink Reservoir in Sullivan County, NY. We are NOT located in Tarrytown, NY.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2023
January 14, 2023 from 10:00 - 11:15 am
"Gardening for Nature’s Intricate Web - Webinar with Carolyn Summers"
Summers will present an informative review of current research that reveals the many ways in which native plants form the basis of the food web that supports a healthy, pollinator-rich landscape. Her lecture covers ways to minimize harm from exotic plants, including the use of native substitutes for a wide variety of traditional styles. Examples of striking, unusual native plants used in formal settings will be provided along with naturalistic styles to explore the full design potential of northeastern native flora.
Register here.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2022
February 10, 2022 at 7 pm
"Native Plants Are for the Birds"
In this virtual program, Carolyn Summer teaches the advantages of growing native plant species and what we can do at home.
Register here.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2021
Saturdays Oct. 23-Nov. 6, 1:00-3:00 pm
"Introduction to Native Plants and Landscapes"
Gain a comprehensive foundation for garden design using native plants. Learn about the importance of native plants, showy substitutes for non-native plants, and sustainable design concepts. Recommended as a first class to the other courses.
Register here.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2020
NOV 18, 2020, 7:00 p.m.
"Native Plants for 21st Century Gardens:
Ending Invasive Exotic Landscape Clutter"
Carolyn Summers will discuss native plants, many of which are under-utilized in the landscape industry, that make excellent substitutes for over-used invasive exotics. Emphasis will be on species that work well in common garden settings, including foundation plantings, hedges, and rain gardens.
Register for Zoom session here.
MAR 15, 2020, 1:00 p.m.
"Gardening with Native Plants to Buffer the Impact of Climate Change"
Discover how introducing native plants can be a resource for combating climate change in our own landscapes. This talk will help teach us that what we choose to plant can make a difference.
Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
Brewster, MA
Tickets available here.
JAN 31, 2020, 10 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
"Spring Awakening"
Discover the beauty and ecology of northeastern spring blooming wildflowers and their pollinators. Find out how to garden with trilliums, orchids, and other early perennials.
The Native Plant Center, SUNY WCC, Valhalla, NY
Please call 914-606-6830 and press option 1 to register.
FEB 7, 2020, 10 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
"Best Practices for Garden Maintenance"
Discover how to maintain a chemical-free, thriving native plant garden with best practices for weeding and invasive plant control, basic plant identification, and suggestions for equipment that will make the job easier.
The Native Plant Center, Suny WCC, Valhalla, NY
Please call 914-606-6830 and press option 1 to register.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2019
JUN 5, 6, 12 and 13
2021 Open Garden Days
Gardens will open from 10-4 each day
For more information or to register for a time slot, email flyingtrillium@gmail.com or call 845-292-6424
Other dates can be arranged for small group appointments; email or phone for details..
DEC 6, 2019, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
"Fantastic Forgotten Natives and Why We Should Use More of Them"
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, Brooklyn, NY
There are so many plants – and so little space. Then why do the same plants appear often on designs? Carolyn Summers will introduce us to a selection of underutilized native plants that merit wider use. Her list will include plants for tough places, pollinator season extenders, edible natives, and some that are simply drop-dead gorgeous. A range of perennials, shrubs, and trees will be covered. Attendees will expand their repertoire of native plants and pick up horticulture and design tips.
NOV 9 & 16, 2019, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
"Introduction to Native Plants"
The Native Plant Center, Suny WCC, Valhalla, NY
Please call 914-606-6830 and press option 1 to register.
"Climate Change and Gardening"
JULY 16, 7 PM
Warwick Town Hall Senior Center
Carolyn Summers will introduce native plants as one resource for combating climate change in our gardens. All are welcome to join the Warwick Valley Gardeners' Public Meeting, 132 King's Highway, Warwick, NY.
Announcing Open Garden Days at Flying Trillium Gardens and Preserve in 2019
MAY 31 & JUNE 8, 2019
We will hold Open Garden Days this year on May 31st and June 8th. All are welcome. If you are interested in joining us, please RSVP for address and directions to csummers@springmail.com or 845-292-6424.
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MAY 4, 2019, 2-4 p.m.
"Arresting the Floodwaters: Hold Your Ground with Native Plants"
Mountain Top Library
Tannersville, NY
We used to say “it rained.” Now we refer to “rain events.” We’ve all seen wet weather cause erosion and flooding. Through a slide presentation and guided walk, author and landscape designer Carolyn Summers will present information on ways to harness wet weather to beautify landscapes, create better wildlife habitat, and prevent erosion. Register by May 2 online or call 518-622-3620.
FEB 23, 2019, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
"Spring Awakening"
Go Native U Class
The Native Plant Center, Suny WCC
Valhalla, NY
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FEB 10, 2019, 2-4:30 p.m.
"Hometown Habitat: Stories of Bringing Nature Home"
Eco Film Series at Ohef Sholom Temple
530 Raleigh Avenue in Norfolk, VA
Free and open to the public.
At this showing, teaching materials from the book Designing Gardens with Flora of the American East, by Carolyn Summers, will be provided.
PAST ENGAGEMENTS IN 2018
DEC 11, 2018
"Rooted in History - Returning Native Plants to Local Landscapes"
CT NOFA Organic Land Care Program
13th Annual Gathering
Heritage Hotel and Conference Center
Southington, CT
NOV 7 & 14
"Native Trees and Shrubs"
Westchester Community College
Larchmont, New York
Explore the best native trees and shrubs for this region and the latest techniques for establishing them in a landscape.
CE-GRDN 2009, 2 Wed., Nov. 7 & 14, 11 am–1 pm, $90. Carolyn Summers. #83095
OCT 24 & 31
"Introduction to Native Plants and Landscapes"
Westchester Community College
Larchmont, New York
Gain a comprehensive foundation for garden design using native plants. Learn about the importance of native plants, their benefit to wildlife, showy substitutes for non-native plants, and sustainable design concepts. Recommended as a first class to the other courses.
CE-GRDN 2010, 2 Wed., Oct. 24 & 31, 10 am–1:30 pm (30-minute lunch break), $130. Carolyn Summers. #83094
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OCT 16
"Introduction to Native Plants and Pollinators"
O'Hara Nature Center
170 Mountain Rd., Irvington, NY
7-9 p.m.
As part of its “Living Classroom Series,” the Pollinator Pathway Project is holding its first public talk and presentation on the important role of native plants and pollinators in our community. On Tuesday, October 16, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., Carolyn Summers will be giving an introductory talk at the O’Hara Nature Center about the importance of pollinators and their unique relationship with native plants, shrubs and trees.
SEPT 28, 2018
"Best Practices for Garden Maintenance"
Westchester Community College
Classroom Building, Room 100
Larchmont, New York
Carolyn Summers is presenting "Best Practices for Garden Maintenance" from 2-4 p.m. as part of a day-long session (9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.), "Native Plant Gardening Know-How" at Westchester. Discover how to maintain a chemical-free, thriving native plant garden with best practices for weeding and invasive plant control, basic plant identification and suggestions for equipment to make the job easier. $55.
Others are presenting "Add Life to Your Landscape" ($55) and "Design for Small Spaces" ($40). Register for one, two or all classes of the conference by calling 914-606-6830, option 1.
SEPT 28
"The Native Plant Center's 20th Anniversary Celebration"
Larchmont Yacht Club
1 Woodbine Ave, Larchmont, New York
6:30 p.m.
The Native Plant Center's 20th Anniversary Celebration honoring Carolyn Summers, Lady Bird Johnson Environmental Award and Lucille Werlinich, Acorn Award.
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"Spring Awakening! The Beauty and Ecology of our Spring Ephemerals"
April 16, 6 p.m.
Manhattan Chapter of the North American Rock Garden Society
NYBG Midtown Education Center, Room D
Manhattan
Details...
This talk will reveal secrets of our earliest spring-blooming wildflowers and their importance in regional ecology. Ms. Summers will also offer gardening tips.
Course: "Native Conifers"
February 1, 10 a.m. - noon
Westchester Community College
75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla, NY
To register, please call 914-606-6830.
Course: "Best Practices for Garden Maintenance"
February 8, 10 a.m. - noon
Westchester Community College
75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla, NY
To register, please call 914-606-6830.
PAST SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS IN 2017
"Sustainable Principles; Designing with Native Plants of the Northeast"
January 26, 2017, 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
Southeast Regional Conference
Ramada Inn
542 Rte. 9
Fishkill, NY
"Landscaping with Natives and Attracting Pollinators"
March 4, 2017, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Litchfield Master Gardeners
Litchfield County Extension Center
843 University Drive
Torrington, CT
Class info...
"Gardening for Nature's Intricate Web"
May 20, 2017, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
LM Flower Day
Presented by Livingston Manor Library
At the Laundry King
65 Main Street
Livingston Manor, NY 12758
Livingston Manor's website...
Landscaping for the Watershed
June 15, 2017
Bergen Save the Watershed Network
Town of Westwood, NJ
Flyer...
Course: "Native Trees and Shrubs"
December 8 and December 15
Westchester Community College
75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla, NY
Explore the best native trees and shrubs for this region and
the latest techniques for establishing them in a landscape. To register, please call 914-606-6830.
PAST SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS IN 2016
"Designing Sustainable Landscapes; Plant Selection"
November 16, 2:30-3:30 PM
2016 Turf & Grounds Exposition
Rochester Riverside Convention Center
Rochester, NY
"Gardens Filled with Life: Designing with Northeastern Flora"
October 25, 7 PM
Bainbridge Presbyterian Church
Author and landscape designer Carolyn Summers will present
an informative review of current research that reveals
the many ways in which indigenous plants form the basis
of the food web which in turn supports a healthy,
biodiverse landscape.
Catskill Native Plant Society - Annual Meeting
September 18, 2016, 11 PM
The Catskill Native Plant Society Annual Meeting
will be held at Flying Trillium Gardens and Preserve
in Neversink on September 18th beginning at 11:00.
There will be barbecue and potluck so we request
that you RSVP to catskillnatives@gmail.com.
All are welcome.
Gardens of Life
July 22, 2016
The Herb Society of America, Great Lakes District
Locust Grove, Poughkeepsie, NY
January 8, 2016, Noon
Women Gardeners of Ridgewood, NJ
Ridgewood Library
February 3, 2016, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Evenings with Experts - Native Plant Gardens: Learning by Example
Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA
February 18, 2016, 10:00 AM - 12 Noon
Maintaining Your Native Plant Garden
Go Native U Series
Westchester Community College
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March 5, 2016
Gardening with a Purpose: Designing with Native Species of the Northeast
URI Master Gardeners Symposium
University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI
April 2, 2016, 2:00pm
Rooted in History - Returning Native Plants to Local Landscapes
Time and the Valleys Museum
332 Main Street, Grahamsville, NY 12740
April 16, 2016
Nature’s Intricate Web
CCE Master Gardeners Garden Day, Ulster County
Stone Ridge, NY
May 15, 2016
Angling for Pictures: A Paddle on the Spatterdock March!
Bergen Save the Watershed Network
Town of Orangeburg, NY
May 31, 2016
Tour of Flying Trillium Gardens and Preserve
Master Gardeners of New Jersey
Town of Neversink, NY
June 23, 2016
Pollinator Garden in the Park: A Talk Under the Tent
Bergen Save the Watershed Network
Town of Westwood, NJ
PAST SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS IN 2015
January 28, 2015, 6:00 - 8:00pm
Native Conifers
Explore the beauty and diversity of conifers native to the Northeast, including the numerous cultivated forms and varieties. Learn the many ways they support wildlife, and their use in designed landscapes. CE-GRDN 2019, $55. #13016
May 16, 2015, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Gardens Filled with Life
Slide presentation at Garden Day
Sponsored by Sullivan County Audubon, et al.,
Livingston Manor, NY
May 20, 2015, 5:30-7:30 PM
Native Alternatives to Regulated Exotic Species
Slide Presentation on new NYS regulations.
Sullivan County Cooperative Extension, Liberty, NY
September 13, 2015, 2:00-3:00 PM
Walk and Talk at Rosedale Nursery’s Native Plant Weekend
Rosedale Nurseries, Westchester County, NY
A portion of sales will benefit The Native Plant Center
October 10, 2015
Highstead Arboretum, CT
October 14, 21, 28
Northeastern Native Plants
Go Native U Series
Westchester Community College
November 12, 2015, 11:00 -1:00 PM
Topic to be announced
Dobbs Ferry Garden Club
November 12, 2015, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Native Alternatives to Common Invasives
Go Native U Series
Westchester Community College
November 18, 2015, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Northeastern Native Trees and Shrubs
Go Native U Series
Westchester Community College
December 2, 2015, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Northeastern Native Trees and Shrubs
Go Native U Series
Westchester Community College
THE NATIVE PLANT CENTER CONNECTION
Mission
To educate people about the environmental necessity, economic value, and natural beauty of native plants in the Northeast.
Plants native to the Northeast are those that naturally occur in the region. Having evolved over thousands of years, they are suited to the area’s climate, weather conditions, and soils, and are less susceptible to its pests and diseases. Once established, native plants often require little maintenance.
Native plants provide valuable sources of food and shelter for wildlife and help protect water quality by filtering stormwater pollutants and reducing soil erosion. They also provide a regional identity, a geographic “sense of place.”
Save Time. Save Money. Go Native.
Watch Carolyn Summers discuss Go Native U program and classes.
History
The Native Plant Center was established in 1998 under the auspices of the Westchester Community College Foundation as the first national affiliate of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas.
The following year, in 1999, Lady Bird Johnson and her daughters, Lynda Johnson Robb and Luci Baines Johnson, visited the Westchester Community College campus for the dedication of The Native Plant Center’s demonstration garden named for the First Lady.
