This four-week course on Thursdays from Oct. 2 through 23 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. led by Bridghe McCracken, will help students better understand the principles and practices of ecological gardening with a focus on native plant communities. Students will learn the native plant palette, resources needed to identify these communities and habitats and methods of introducing native plants into gardens. Identifying and controlling invasive plant species, in addition to restoring areas that have been impacted by invasives, will also be highlighted. Gardeners will learn how to enhance garden spaces with native plants that create sustainable and low-maintenance gardens. 

Bridghe McCracken, a horticulturist and landscape designer, founded Helia Native Nursery in 2021 following the sale of Project Native, a non-profit where she served as chief landscape designer for a decade. Helia Native Nursery emerged as a way to carry forward the mission she began at Project Native: preserving the genetic diversity of Berkshire native plants. By collecting and propagating seeds from unique local species, McCracken provides plants for both landscape clients and the general public, all in service of restoring and strengthening the region’s fragile ecosystems. She holds a BA in Biology from Colorado College, is a certified Organic Landcare Professional through the Northeast Organic Farmers Association, a certified Horticulturist from MCLA, a Massachusetts Master Gardener, and an advanced practitioner and graduate of the Four Winds Society.