Preregistration required for this program designed for adults.
If you’re interested in creating your own native wildflower-filled, pollinator friendly, pocket-sized prairie in your own yard, this class is the first step. The key to success in creating any type of native plant bed is site preparation. Join us as we dive into the many ways to prepare your site, regardless of what’s there now.
This is part 1 of two classes on how to plant a Pocket Prairie Kit. While the information will stand on its own, you’ll find benefit in attending both of these individual classes. (Save the date for the optional class part 2 “How to Plant a Pocket Prairie: Design and Implementation” to be held on October 8, 2023.)
In this class, we'll cover:
- What it means to have intentionally wild native plants and why it's important
- Discussion of native seed banks and pesky invasives
- How preparation is important in controlling weeds and nurturing new plants
- At least three different methods for removing turf grass and weeds
- Importance of soil disturbance in preparation of planting
- A walk–through of previously installed pocket prairies with a chance to pre-order for the fall at a 10% discount.
This class is intended for: landowners who have a plot to plant that’s at least 36 square feet (or larger), sunny, and well-drained. A pocket prairie might be a great start towards creating a native landscape. Pocket prairies are wilder in appearance (vs. a tended flowerbed), but can be contained appropriately for community-minded yards.
What to expect:
- We will be walking approximately 0.25 mile in total.
- Come prepared to “learn by doing” and to get your hands dirty.
- This class meets entirely outside—dress for the weather.
About the instructor:
Carolyn Ramseur is our Natural Areas Project Coordinator here at the Nature Center. She has a B.S. in Ecology and Biodiversity and is focused on bringing ecosystems back into our urban communities. With two years’ experience in land stewardship and restoration, she's been collecting knowledge on invasive species management, prairie restoration, and native natural areas. Combined with a wide-ranging background from stream biodiversity studies to teaching and singing classical music, her goal is to combine culturally relevant outreach with natural sciences to help every person find new skills and ways to improve the health of our local ecosystems.
Registered program participants should meet at Fernwood Shelter at our Rowe Woods location.
Member adult $10; nonmember adult $20 (includes daily admission).
By registering below, you agree to the following:
Pet Policy for Programs/Events: For the comfort and safety of all guests, no pets are allowed at programs or events. Service animals specifically trained to aid a person with a disability are welcome. Therapy animals, whose function is to provide comfort or emotional support, do not qualify as service animals. For more information about pets on our grounds, please see our pet policies on our website.
Cancellation Policy: Please note that cancellations must be made at least two weeks in advance of the event. No refunds or transfers of fees will occur if the request is made less than two weeks prior to the event. All programs continue, rain or shine. In the event that Cincinnati Nature Center cancels a program, full refunds will be issued.
Program Policy: Cincinnati Nature Center may update the status or format of programs based on conditions at the time of the program.
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Important Information For All Program Registrants: Please retain your order number or print off/save an electronic copy of the email acknowledgement as a receipt. You may be asked for your order number from your transaction to gain entry at the gate/to attend your program.