Goldenrod is an adaptable native plant that provides beauty and ecological value to almost any garden. Goldenrods native to the eastern temperate forest region of North America can be found growing in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, rocky cliffs, bogs, and coastal dunes. The trial evaluated 70 types of Solidago, including 50 distinct species as well as cultivars and ecotypes native to the eastern United States. The evaluated plants included goldenrods that were commercially available, wild-origin collections of commonly available species, and additional species that are relatively obscure and rarely cultivated. The release of their latest research report from the Trial Garden is here: Solidago for the Mid-Atlantic Region.
There will be plenty of time after our Trial Garden tour to wander the grounds on your own. We can have a picnic lunch together, then we can break off to explore on our own or with a newfound friend from our group. Your registration fee includes admission to the garden and the special speaker. You are welcome to stay until closing. If you are a member of Mt Cuba Center, you may use that pass for garden entrance and purchase the discounted ticket here for the lecture.
Mt. Cuba Center’s native plant collection was established by the Copeland family, who were pioneers in conservation. Many of their plants are grown from seeds collected in the wild, propagated in their greenhouse, and then cultivated and displayed in the gardens. The research team evaluates plants and related cultivars for horticultural and ecological value, highlighting what those plants provide to the ecosystem. In addition, Mt. Cuba Center’s greenhouse studies how to propagate difficult or underutilized plants so they can be re-established in the natural landscape. Adding new cultivars of native plants expands the availability of high-quality, improved plants for the gardening community. Plant introductions made by Mt. Cuba Center are typically sent to the nursery industry to be propagated and distributed for sale to the public.
Our leader is Sam Hoadley, Manager of Horticultural Research, where he evaluates native plant species, old and new cultivars, and hybrids in the Trial Garden. He earned his degree in Sustainable Landscape Horticulture from the University of Vermont. Some of his favorite native plants include Amsonia, Baptisia, Clematis, and Silphium.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is completed.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email sent a few days before the date.
- All participants must be pre-registered. If you are on the waitlist and show up to the event uninvited, you will not be allowed to participate.
- High school-aged children are welcome to attend and must be registered as a guest of their adult.
- No more than two children per adult.
- Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, and a lunch, if you would like to join us to eat after the tour.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
Registration
Levels:-
NHSM Member: $45
Guest names must be listed on your family membership to qualify for this discount. Extra adults with individual memberships should register independently. - Non Member: $50
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NHSM Member with Mt Cuba Membership: $25
You'll use your Mt Cuba pass for garden entrance, and this ticket for the private lecture. -
Non Member with Mt Cuba Membership: $30
You'll use your Mt Cuba pass for garden entrance, and this ticket for the private lecture.