Neighbors for Native Plants
Transform your yard into a thriving ecosystem while supporting local wildlife and biodiversity
5 Sessions
May - June 2026
Expert-Led
Local Specialists
Hands-On
Field Experiences
FREE
Grant Funded
200+
Participants Trained
50+
Participants Trained
5
Interactive Sessions
98%
Satisfaction Rate
What You'll Discover
Have you ever wondered:
- How to identify native plants in your area?
- Which plants are invasive and how to remove them?
- What to plant to support a healthy ecosystem?
Join NeighborSpace this spring for our comprehensive, hands-on course that will transform your understanding of native plants and empower you to make a real difference in your community.
Course Journey
Introduction to Native Plants
Learn the fundamentals of native plants, why they matter, and how they support local ecosystems.
Field Experience - Lochearn
Hands-on plant identification in the field with expert guidance.
Field Experience - Woodlawn
Practice invasive species identification and removal techniques.
Invasive Species Management
Deep dive into invasive species control and ecosystem restoration strategies.
Final Field Trip - Choose Your Adventure
Choice 1: Saturday, June 6th, 9:00-11:00 AM (Towson)
or
Choice 2: Saturday, June 13th, 9:00-11:00 AM (Lochearn)
Apply everything you've learned in a final hands-on experience.
Skills You'll Master
Native Plant Identification
Learn to recognize and identify native plants that thrive in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Understand their seasonal variations and growth patterns.
Invasive Species Management
Discover which plants are invasive to this area, why they're harmful, and effective, sustainable techniques for their removal and control.
Ecosystem Support
Discover which plants are invasive to this area, why they're harmful, and effective, sustainable techniques for their removal and control.
Why Native Plants Matter
Learn to recognize and identify native plants that thrive in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Understand their seasonal variations and growth patterns.
- Provide food and habitat for native birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects
- Require less water and maintenance once established
- Prevent soil erosion and improve water quality
- Support resilient ecosystems against climate change
- Preserve our natural heritage and ecological character
- Create beautiful landscapes year-round
What's Included
Course Handbook
Comprehensive guide to native plants
ID Checklists
Easy reference sheets for field use
Removal Guides
Step-by-step invasive removal
Certificate
Upon course completion
Meet Your Instructors
Expert Name
Native Plant Specialist
Bio about instructor's expertise in native plants and their experience with NeighborSpace programs.
Expert Name
Ecologist
Bio about instructor's background in ecology and invasive species management in Baltimore County.
Expert Name
Environmental Educator
Bio about instructor's experience in environmental education and community outreach.
Course In Action
See what past participants experienced
What Participants Say
This course completely changed how I view my yard! I've already started replacing invasive plants with native species, and I'm seeing more butterflies and birds than ever before.
Sarah M., Towson
The field sessions were incredible! Being able to identify plants in their natural habitat with expert guidance made all the difference. I feel confident now.
James K., Lochearn
I loved that this course was free and accessible to everyone. The instructors were knowledgeable and passionate, making each session engaging and informative.
Maria L., Woodlawn
As a teacher, I was able to bring what I learned back to my classroom. My students are now planting a native garden at our school!
Robert D., Baltimore County
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior knowledge or experience?
No prior knowledge is required! This course is designed for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. We'll start with the basics and build from there.
Is the course really free?
Describe the item or answer the question so that site visitors who are interested get more information. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.Do I need to attend all sessions?
We strongly encourage attendance at all sessions to get the full benefit of the course. Each session builds on the previous one, and the field experiences are particularly valuable.
What should I bring to field sessions?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a notebook if you'd like to take notes. We'll provide all other materials.
How do virtual sessions work?
Virtual sessions are held via Zoom. You'll receive a link after registration. Sessions include presentations, Q&A, and interactive discussions.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely! We encourage participants to share this experience with others. Each person should register individually so we can plan accordingly.
Ready to Get Started?
Get notified when the next class is scheduled and become a champion for native plants in your community!
Email
info@neighborspacebc.org or call
443-377-3760 to be on the list for the next class.
The Neighbors for Native Plants course is funded by grants from the
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the
Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability.
