With the growing interest in incorporating native plants into our landscapes, it’s essential to understand how their care differs from more traditional garden maintenance practices. While native plantings are often described as “low maintenance,” they are not “no maintenance”—and supporting a healthy ecosystem requires a thoughtful approach.
In this lecture, we’ll explore the key differences between sustainable (native-focused) and conventional garden care, including soil preparation, irrigation practices, plant management, seed collection, seasonal cutting back, pest and disease resistance, mulching strategies, and more. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how to shift maintenance practices to better support biodiversity, soil health, and long-term resilience in the garden. including guidance and reference sources, to help participants confidently apply these techniques in their own gardens.