Authored By Savannah Bennett
Local gardeners and area residents will soon have the opportunity to learn about and purchase native plants. Reflection Riding’s Arboretum and Nature Center’s annual fall native plant sale is this weekend. “We’re continuing to increase the number of plant species we offer, and that’s exciting because it promotes biodiversity in our yards and communities,” Reflection Riding Director of Horticulture John Evan said in a prepared statement. The plant sale will feature family programs throughout the weekend and a selection of plants native to Tennessee. The fall native plant sale can help new and experienced gardeners wanting to stock up on native trees, shrubs and perennials for their autumn planting. “The fall is also a great time to plant because by the time spring comes, you can just sit back and enjoy your garden as it comes to life,” Evan said. 
Other highlights of the festival include:
- A wide variety of mature azaleas in sizes ranging from 1 to 3-gallon pots.
- Landscape architect consultations will take place on Saturday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Guests can meet with WMW and Associates Principal Matt Whitaker to discuss your most challenging sustainable landscaping challenges. Choose from a 15 or 30-minute consultation for $15 or $30. All proceeds benefit Reflection Riding.
- Free educational programs will be offered on Friday and Saturday, including a walking discussion of the American Chestnut Restoration Program, Planting for Pollinators and Understanding the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.
- Healing Through Southern Color workshop: This medicinal plant-based printing workshop will teach the basic skills of block and stencil printing using natural colors extracted from local plants. The workshop is $30 per person.
The plant sale will take place on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about the fall native plant sale, including a full list of available plants, volunteer opportunities and further details on educational programs, visit their website.
