Saturday, June 7 | 1:15 pm | Pagoda Plaza | Anna Thurston

If you’re looking for plants that support birds and pollinators, this presentation will address the largely native species that add seasonal color, texture, and beauty to gardens which have a framework of trees and shrubs. “Hub” trees and shrubs ~will~ also be covered, but we’ll focus more on how to choose, and care for plants that thrive in Western Washington habitats. Bring your plant, insect, and pest ID questions. Answers often provide insights on why Pacific NW species choices are easier to manage and provide the most benefits to struggling bird and pollinator populations that need your support to overcome.

About Anna Thurston

Anna Thurston is a veteran landscape designer with more than 35 years of experience. She is also a Steward educator and restoration ecologist specializing in native and adapted plants among sustainable landscape installations. Anna brings a unique perspective to the process of landscape plant specification and installation priorities for projects of all scales. She knows how to enhance knowledge among designers and home gardeners so they can better utilize local plant species that flourish with ease, while providing water-efficiency and numerous other benefits.

Saturday, June 7 | 2:30 pm | Pagoda Plaza | Teresa McKee & Madrone McCarthy of Hedgerow Herb Co.

Hedgerows are places of medicine, a site where humankind and the natural world intersect. The hedgerow is a natural or man-made border, housing small creatures and wild herbs. These living borders are as well known to be a place of magical happenings, an entry to the otherworld. This class delves into the folklore and medicinal uses of plants commonly found in hedgerows. From the nourishing properties of Nettle to the fairy lore of the Hawthorn tree in Ireland, this class will offer practical insight into how we can connect with common plants in the Pacific Northwest such as Rosemary, Hawthorn, Nettle, Yarrow, and a variety of wild Roses.

About Teresa McKee

Teresa, known by friends as Tessa, is a practicing folk herbalist, botanical distiller, writer, folklorist, and end-of-life-doula. She has completed several online herbal courses, apprenticed with Washington based herbalist Corinne Boyer, and has wild-harvested and crafted her own botanical remedies since 2015. Teresa came up in an Alaskan forests completely overtaken by Devil’s Club, a spined, stinging plant native to the Pacific Northwest. Her first remedy was an aromatic skin healing salve crafted from the root’s bark.

“I’d been stung many times by Devil’s Club as a child. It’s a terrible burning sensation, typically much more severe than stinging nettle, for example. I was enthralled to learn that the remedy for this plant’s prickly defense lay within its own roots, and was delighted by the powerful green scent. Working with Devil’s Club was a deeply meaningful step towards connecting with the harsh landscape of my youth.

I believe it is imperative that we endeavor to connect with the natural world, to honor the place we reside, to seek sustainable nourishment from the land, and to revive old ways of healing in order to lessen our dependence on big pharma.”

As a certified death doula, Tessa prioritizes deep listening in order to conclude which herbs would best support your needs and preference. She values evidence-based research of medicinal plants while trusting in the power of herbs that have been tried and tested in her practice, and by folk healers of old.

About Madrone McCarthy

Madrone began practicing herbalism eight years ago. While she has studied many paths and trades, plants have consistently been a part of her world and study. She is passionate about the preservation of old ways in modern times and sharing the resources of traditional herbalism with her greater community. Always a student, Madrone has studied folk herbalism & other folk practices with Yaya Erin Rivera Merriman and Corinne Boyer. “My hope is to help re-connect people to place, old ways, and to themselves by way of the plant world and herbal remedies. Through honoring time-old traditions and humbling ourselves to the cyclical process of the seasons and the life cycles of plants and our bodies, I feel we can all find pieces of ourselves lost to the demands of our current times.”
Madrone loves mixing your remedies and deeply listening in order to find the ideal plant or blend of plants that will be most supportive to your system. She is also is ever curious about the unseen world and hosts plant spirit journeys bi-monthly at the shop, to connect with other curious folks.

Sunday, June 8 | 1:15 pm | Pagoda Plaza | Sarah Brackman of Girl Run Farm

Do you wonder why your plants throw tantrums? Drop leaves? Fail to thrive? 

Sarah from Girl Run Farm will offer tips on growing healthier plants, address common problems, and provide practical solutions. Join us for this dynamic, entertaining, and educational talk!

About Sarah Brackman

My name is Sarah Brackman, and I am a Horticulturist. I’ve grown up surrounded by plants and plant lovers. Gardening is a gift that’s been given to me by my family. Plants of every kind evoke creativity, admiration, and nostalgia.  We share what we learn and inspire each other. It’s in my blood.

I studied horticulture at Michigan State University and then embarked on what has been a terrific career in commercial horticulture. I’ve been in many roles – from greenhouse grower to sales to product management and finally…. back to what brings me the most joy- growing.

The generous growers I have worked with have taught me well. I’m lucky to have visited 100’s of greenhouse operations in North America. I learned from every one of them. Sometimes what not to do!

I propagate from my collection. I seek out the most interesting plants I can find, propagate them, and grow them until they’re ready to sell.  It’s been a thrilling challenge on many levels. The long-ago world of production and growth came back to me quickly. I unabashedly use all my horticulture industry contacts to perfect my small growing operation. It’s continuous learning and I enjoy doing it. These plants are tried, true but more importantly…they’re my favorites. I’m thrilled to share them with you. Thank you for your interest in my story and plants. They’re grown with love!

Sunday, June 8 | 2:30 pm | Pagoda Plaza | Justin Henderson of Lakewold Gardens

Come along for this journey through England as Lakewold Executive Director and Lead Horticulturist, Justin Henderson, shares his experience at several of the most fabulous gardens in the UK. Be enchanted as we learn about Great Dixter, Sissinghurst, Barnsley House, Hidcote, and more. The stories of these gardens and gardeners that Justin encountered are sure to inspire and bring horticulture delight. Enjoy complimentary tea as you listen and dream.

About Justin Henderson

Justin Henderson is the Executive Director and Lead Horticulturist at Lakewold Gardens in Lakewood, WA, where he blends his deep love of plants with a vision for creating meaningful outdoor spaces. A passionate garden designer and horticulturist, Justin transforms gardens into immersive experiences that connect people with the beauty and serenity of nature.