Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center at Reflection Riding is hosting its 26th annual Native Plant Sale and Open House April 5, 6 and 7. The sale will feature native plants that volunteers have propagated in the nursery on site for a variety of garden conditions. Native plants are a good choice for introducing into the home landscape for a number of reasons: they are beautiful, they are sustainable, and they contribute to habitat conservation by creating biodiversity and an environment favorable to wildlife.
The Native Plant Sale will also feature wildflower walks, tree identification classes, animal presentations, bird watching and much more. Bring the whole family and explore the unique landscape that is CA&NC at Reflection Riding, with over 12 miles of trails, over 1,000 different species of flora and an incredible variety of animal life.
“We are anxious to share with our community the beauty, serenity and adventure to be found all on one site, right here, just minutes from downtown Chattanooga.” Dr. Paola Craddock, greenhouse manager said. “And we hope many people will take advantage of the free admission all weekend.”
Evidence of early Tennessee Valley Native Americans, Spanish explorers, pioneer settlers and Civil War soldiers is present in the natural landscape of CA&NC. Other features include the George S. Bryan Discovery Forest Treehouse and the Paddler’s Perch, both located on the banks of Lookout Creek, and the Wildlife Wanderland, with its many species of captive native animals including highly endangered Red Wolves.
The event will take place April 5, and 6, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and April 7, from 1-5 p.m.
Reflection Riding Arboretum and Botanical Garden became a non-profit organization in 1956. The Chattanooga Nature Center was created in 1979. In 2011 the two organizations were re-chartered with the State of Tennessee as Reflection Riding Land Conservation Trust (RRLCT) and the Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center (CA&NC). The CA&NC mission is "to promote environmental stewardship through conservation, education and research and by connecting people with land, plants and wildlife.”
For the complete Events Schedule and Native Plant List, go to www.chattanoogaanc.org.