Department of Conservation, master gardeners team up for native plant seminar

The spring native plant seminar, held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 8 at the Conservation Campus Nature Center, marks another year of partnership between Cape Girardeau County master gardeners and the Missouri Department of Conservation. In 2006 the venue was changed from the Missouri Extension Center in Jackson to the current location because the Nature Center offered more space for activities in an environment well-suited for native plants.

The seminar promotes native plants but is not limited to the topic. Eight classes centered around spring include everything from promoting native landscapes to food preparation and from sampling to propogation. Those interested in developing and enhancing landscapes for spring can also learn about water features, containers and vines.

The front of the Nature Center and its perimeter -- landscaped with native plants -- shows the benefits of using natives by attracting wildlife for regular visits. Visitors can watch the activities of birds and small mammals from indoor areas any time of year.

There will be a native plant sale and vendors and artisans selling items made from natural ingredients and those that compliment gardens or encourage wildlife. Stonework, concrete art, wildflowers and birdhouses are some examples of what will be available.

Dr. Georganne Syler, professor of dietetics and hospitality management at Southeast Missouri State University, will present three recipes for a spring/Easter breakfast. Syler said she will encourage eating fresh fruits and vegetables for good nutrition rather than eating diet food. Sampling prepared dishes will be part of the demonstration.

Diebold Orchard greenhouse manager Judy Scherer will offer, "What's New -- Creative and Statement Containers." Scherer collects items to enhance gardens and use them as decorative containers. She believes fancy containers make the garden more interesting. Some of the items she collects include magazine racks, old chairs without seats, old fence gates and watering cans.

"But it's not just country stuff," she said. "Unusual containers hand-tailor a garden to its collector."

Information on basic supplies, location and maintenance for container gardening will be offered. Examples of new, ususual and statement containers plus how to use 15 new plants specifically for containers will be part of the presentation. "Containers and the plants in them are chosen for their eye-catching appeal. The new ones we offer were chosen for success in this area," Scherer said.

Classes on how to attract butterflies, produce an ever-changing show of blooms or learn about the diversity that native vines can offer in your garden, are also part of the seminar.

Boxed lunches can be purchased and must be paid for at registration. Participants can bring their own meals.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. for the event held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is advised. For more information, call Cape Girardeau County Extension Center at 243-3581 or the Nature Center at 290-5218.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133