FARMINGTON — The Mt. Blue Area Garden Club’s upcoming workshop, Cultivating Change: Learn Why and How to Grow Native Plants to Save the Planet – One Garden at a Time will be led by Maine Master Gardener Volunteer Rachel McClellan.

This hands-on workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 19, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 612 Farmington Falls Road. Light refreshments and a social gathering will begin at 12:30 p.m., with the lecture and workshop starting at 1 p.m.

Monarch and Bumble Bee on Joe Pye Weed. Rachel McClellan photo

In this interactive class, participants can explore the essential role native plants play in supporting the local ecosystem. McClellan will demonstrate an easy, effective cold-stratification method for germinating native seeds, which helps reintroduce plants that are uniquely adapted to the biome and vital for the health of local wildlife, according to a news release from Rachel McClellan with the club.

Following the lecture, participants can pot their own native seeds to take home, ready to overwinter and bring new life to their gardens in the spring.

Unlike non-native species or turfgrass, native plants have co-evolved with local birds, pollinators and beneficial insects, creating a balanced and self-sustaining ecosystem. Reintroducing native plants can help restore food webs, promote soil health, and provide critical shelter to wildlife, all of which contribute to a resilient environment. In an era of habitat loss and climate change, planting natives is a meaningful way to help reverse ecological damage and support the delicate balance necessary for a healthy ecosystem.

Growing from seed over winter is an economical way to source native plants that can help nature reclaim its footing in our yards.

The event is free for Mt. Blue Area Garden Club members. Non-members are invited to attend with a suggested donation of $10 to help cover the cost of class materials and support club activities.

As part of the Garden Club Federation of Maine, the Mt. Blue Area Garden Club has been working to promote interest in gardening in Franklin county for more than 55 years.

For more information visit mtbluegardenclub.org.

Check out other upcoming area events!