The keynote speaker for this special training session is Dr. Douglas Tallamy, author, professor, chair of the Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology and director of the Center for Managed Ecosystems at the University of Delaware. Tallamy will discuss research conducted for his book Bringing Nature Home: How Native Plants Sustain Wildlife in Our Gardens. The day's activities are open to all.

Awarded the 2008 silver medal by the Garden Writers Association, Bringing Nature Home has sparked a national conversation about the link between healthy local ecosystems and human well-being. By acting on Tallamy’s practical recommendations, everyone can make a difference. The book will be available for sale in the Arboretum Bookstore.

Native Plant Guided Walks
The Chesapeake Bay region is sustained by native plants that provide food and shelter to wildlife and enhance the rich biodiversity of the Bay watershed. Arboretum docents will lead you along the paths that bisect the rich and unique native plant habitat of Adkins Arboretum, all outstanding specimens of plants native to the Delmarva Peninsula. The plant habitats you’ll see include mature and young native forests, meadows, a wetland, as well as a rain garden and a pollinator garden. You will visit the Arboretum’s Native Plant Nursery and the children’s teaching garden.
Take advantage of a special membership offer for Master Gardeners! Renew or join at the Contributor membership level of $90 (regularly $100), and receive a 20% discount on plants purchased at the Native Plant Nursery, plus all other Arboretum membership benefits.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

10:00 a.m. Arboretum Opens
Native Plant Sale (with experts on hand for advice) and Gift Shop

11:00–12:00 p.m. Registration

12:00–12:30 p.m. Lunch
Sandwich, chips, fruit, and cookies with fresh brewed iced tea with lemon and garden mint lemonade

12:30–1:45 p.m. Keynote Speaker
Douglas Tallamy

1:45–2:15 p.m. Book Signing and Break

2:15–3:45 p.m. Native Plant Guided Walks by Arboretum Docent Naturalists

3:45–4:00 p.m. Wrap-up with light refreshments