Thursday Night Nature: The Art and Science of Growing Native Plants from Seed: Why, When, and How with Randi Eckel, Ph.D. (April 17, 2025)

As we incorporate more native plants into our landscapes, there are so many good reasons to use plants propagated from seeds. But wild plants have evolved a dizzying array of mechanisms, including chemical-induced dormancy and mandatory cold stratification, to ensure that their seeds disperse, persevere, and germinate at just the right time under natural conditions. These mechanisms are not in place to frustrate would-be plant propagators but must be understood to successfully grow native plants from seed. A far-reaching discussion of the issues surrounding seed collection, procurement, and propagation, with information that will encourage the novice and challenge the professional alike.

Dr. Randi Eckel has been working with native plants for over 35 years. She founded the mail-order native plant nursery Toadshade Wildflower Farm in 1996 to further public awareness and availability of native plants. A life-long naturalist, lover of nature, entomologist, and confirmed plant and ecology nerd, Randi specializes in the interactions between plants and other living things. She is known for her lively and engaging lectures and workshops on growing and propagating native plants, and offers interesting, nuanced information on the complex issues facing native plants and native plant communities. She is the past president (and is currently serving as the vice president) of the Native Plant Society of New Jersey.

Program Fee: $15 (Members, enter your code at checkout to receive your 20% discount.)

All lectures will be held virtually using Zoom. They will be recorded and shared with everyone who registers for a short time.