Naturalistic perennial plantings are all the rage, but adapting them to smaller scale gardens can be a challenge. Join artist-gardener Robert Clyde Anderson for an illustrated lecture that clarifies the main concepts behind the New Perennial Movement and offers techniques, based on his own experience, for combining three to five compatible perennials that become a living mulch for weed suppression and moisture retention. Specific plant combinations will be discussed as well as how-to planting and staging techniques that Robert has used over several seasons developing a mature, wet-meadow planting.

Robert Clyde Anderson found his way to the Hudson Valley after a New York City career in illustration and book design. A native of Louisiana, Robert is a lifelong gardener and has designed and maintained gardens in Columbia County as well as serving as right-hand man for eight years at the former Loomis Creek Nursery in Claverack, NY. From 2012 to 2017, Robert served as Creative Director for Pondside Nursery in Hudson, NY, where he helped launch the business and was the buyer for perennials, annuals, tropicals and hard goods. He continues to serve as a client consultant and writes about plants and gardening on his personal blog, Sempervivum, at www.robertclydeanderson.com