Going native: Symposium teaches about getting more with Chattanooga area plants

Benefits of going native* Low maintenance: Native plants generally require less care because they are adapted to their region. That translates to less watering, fertilizing or use of chemicals than with non-native plants.* Healthier plants: Because native plants are acclimated to their region, they are less susceptible to most pests and diseases.* Working for a living: They provide food for wildlife species – nectar and/or pollen for bees and other insects and fruits/seeds for birds and small mammals. In contrast, many cultivators produce sterile flowers that lack nectar/pollen or that do not produce fruits and seeds.* Attractive to butterflies: Native plants are a great way to attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other birds to your home landscape because certain native plants have nectar-rich flowers. Many types of birds are attracted to seeds and fruits produced by native plants.* Foster a sense of place: By planting natives in your home landscape, you can highlight the vegetation of your region in an interesting and educational way.Source: Tim SpiraIF YOU GOWhat: Native Plant and Natural Landscaping Symposium.When: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday, March 9.Where: Chattanooga State Community College, Humanities Building auditorium, 4501 Amnicola Highway.Registration: $40 Wild Ones members in advance, $50 nonmembers in advance; $60 for everyone day of event. Walk-ups will be accepted as space allows.To Register: www.chattanooganatives.blogspot.comSYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE8 a.m. – Registration9 a.m. – Welcome9:10 a.m. – “Wildflowers and Plant Communities of the Southern Appalachians” by Tim Spira. Which native plants belong together in a harmonious community? Spira explains the multilayered plant life of this area and how knowing ways these plant communities support each other can reduce the need for constant intervention.10 a.m. – “Building a Native Plant Garden: Native Trees, Shrubs and Woody Vines in the Urban Environment” by Leon Bates. A well-designed landscape starts with a good infrastructure of native trees, shrubs and vines.10:50 a.m. – Break11:10 a.m. – “Adding More Beauty: Great Native Perennials for Your Garden” by Andy Sessions. Learn about native perennials that offer beauty, low maintenance, profuse blooming and insect and disease resistance.Noon. – Lunch (provided)12:50 p.m. – “Gardening for Nature: Promoting Biodiversity at Home,” by Lisa Wagner. Increasing biodiversity supports a wider range of wildlife. Learn what native plants encourage birds, butterflies and other creatures to visit your yard.1:40 p.m. – Break1:55 p.m. – “Managing Invasive Exotic Plants in a Natural Landscape” by Cherie Cordell. Despite best efforts, exotic pest plants like privets and exotic honeysuckles can be a constant challenge to control.2:45 p.m. – Q&A Panel: Dealing with Gardening Challenges of the Tennessee ValleySource: Tennessee Valley chapter, Wild Ones