08/26/2026
If you live in NoVa (or DC or MD), don't miss Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy's Native Plant Sale, September 12 at Morven Park in Leesburg. In addition to checking out the natives being sold by five nurseries, learn from an incredible slate of experts....
• 10:00 AM – Rethinking "Weeds": Native Volunteers
Speakers: Jim and Autumn Knowles, Abernethy and Spencer
Shift your perspective on uninvited yard plants. Discover how to distinguish aggressive, non-native invaders from beneficial "native volunteers" like common violet, fleabane, and false nettle, and learn why these misunderstood plants are actually ecological powerhouses for local pollinators.
• 10:45 AM – Native Design with Intent
Speakers: Spencer Craig and Devlan Perkins, Deco Footprint Design + Build
Elevate your landscape from a simple garden to an ecologically vibrant masterpiece. Local professionals will demonstrate how to select structurally striking native species with high wildlife value and arrange them intentionally to maximize year-round beauty and low-maintenance appeal.
• 11:30 AM – Invasive Plants in Our Backyards: Protecting Native Ecosystems
Speakers: Maryann Manning and Alys Jarvel, Loudoun Invasive Removal Alliance
Discover how aggressive, non-native plants threaten regional parks and neighborhoods. Learn to identify top regional green pests, understand their ecological impact, and master effective removal methods to restore healthy communities in your own backyard.
• 12:15 PM – Why Native Plants Matter and How to Get Started
Speaker: Nan McCarry, Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy
Discover how switching to native plants transforms yards into wildlife-friendly havens. Learn why these local plants are vital for our regional ecosystem, get a list of beginner-friendly native species to jumpstart your garden, and connect with local resources.
