Chapter Events

A slide show and discussion on plants native to Central Illinois and where they like to grow woodland (shade), prairie (full sun), savanna (part shade). Presented by Mary Jo Adams, Master Naturalist Intern.

President Sherrie Snyder will share her experiences and provide suggestions for landscaping with natives. She will talk about planning what to plant and where, integration with existing non-natives, benefits of natives, and local and mail order resources.

Dr. Schmidt has worked to replant native prairie plants at Sugar Grove Nature Center and elsewhere in the area. "The Dean of Green" will take us into the greenhouse to explain seed germination, the steps necessary for successful early spring planting, and much more. He will also show us a variety of native plants that he has propagated. Presented by Don Schmidt, Illinois State University, Dept. of Biological Sciences

Meet at the Sugar Grove Nature Center picnic shelter before heading out on the trail in search of early signs of spring natives. Weather permitting, Tim Lewis, Wild Ones National President along with other experienced naturalists will lead us on a hike through the Grove and help us learn how to identify the early spring ephemerals. Enjoy warm drinks and chat with members of the Wild Ones National Board of Directors.

Janice Coons and Nancy Coutant, faculty at Eastern Illinois University, will share their extensive expertise on selecting, maintaining, and propagating native plants for various garden situations and goals. They will cover such diverse topics as differing micro-climates in our gardens, plants with four-season appeal, and native plants for attracting wildlife, especially butterflies and hummingbirds. They will also offer advice on reliable native plant sources, including native plant nurseries, catalogues and websites, and local sales. Coons and Coutant both do research on the factors necessary for successful native plant propagation. Dr. Coons has successfully established 70-80 species of native plants in a single bed at her home in Minonk.

Ms. Frautschi, originator of Wild Birds Unlimited in Normal, understands the attraction between native plant species and birds. She will explain how to use plants and other natural elements to attract birds and butterflies to your yard. Presented by Deanna Frautschi, Master Naturalist Intern, wildlife photographer

This program is a voluntary effort to help reduce synthetic pesticide use, conserve natural resources and make room for wildlife. Yard Smart has developed yard care practices that are safe for children, pets and native species. Presented by Michael Brown, Director, Ecology Action Center, Normal, IL

Invasive alien (non-native) species are becoming a concern in many natural areas of the country, and they are also present in people's backyards! Commercial nurseries can still sell some invasive plants, such as Purple Loofestrife and Autumn Olive, and unwitting property owners often plant these with the thought they are good for wildlife and/or pretty. Other invasives, such as Garlic Mustard, will easily and rapidly spread from one area to another, crowding out our native plants. Learn how to recognize (and avoid planting) these problem plants in your landscaping, and what to do if you have them. Presented by Jason Shoemaker, Land Steward, Parklands Foundation

Don't think that the prairie only blooms in the spring and summer. Hike the trails at Sugar Grove Nature Center with Director Angela Funk and be dazzled by the asters and other flowers that bring fall color to the native landscape. Optional: Bring your own picnic and meet at the picnic shelter at 5:00pm. Walk will start at 6:00 pm.

As part of their stewardship responsibilities, Al and Mary collect native seed used to overseed and restore natural areas of Nachusa Grasslands in northern Illinois. They will share their knowledge and experience on how to collect, clean, and store seed as well as some thoughts on when and where to collect seeds from native plants. Plan to attend this session to learn how to collect seed this fall that you can share at the November seed exchange. Presented by Al and Mary Meier, Nachusa Grasslands Stewards, Nature Conservancy

Year in Review and election of new board officers. Potluck: Please bring a bread, salad, or dessert to share; Board will provide soups; bring your own reusable table set (bowl, plate, mug, utensils) Seed Exchange: Bring any native plant seeds you have to shore and/or select seeds brought by someone else