Prepare to embark on a deep dive into the world of plants with horticulturist, master gardener, and science teacher, Joel Swan on Wednesday, March 12 at 6:30 pm! Join this verdant journey where you'll decode the secrets behind plant nomenclature, terminology, and growing techniques, while learning the importance of matching each plant with its ideal location. Additionally, explore how climate change is impacting our local vegetation and discover how you can use this knowledge like a gardening superhero! By anchoring the conversation in scientific principles, this engaging workshop will enhance your gardening confidence and boost your success.

A trained horticulturist, Joel is the current head of the Science Department at East Providence High School, where has taught science for nearly 30 years. He has been a URI Master Gardener for more than a decade and enthusiastically practices permaculture at his own home.

This workshop is part of the 2025 Yards Alive Living Landscapes Learning Series organized by Prickly Ed’s Cactus Patch as part of their mission to infuse life, vitality and meaning into area landscapes. Learn more about the series of workshops, view speaker bios and explore resources on the topic at www.pricklyeds/upcoming-events

Complete Events in this Series:

• Buzz Alert! Rhode Island’s Native Bees are in Trouble - Discover How to Help Them Right at Home - Thursday, January 30 at 6:30 pm
• The Art of Inspired Ecological Design - Thursday February 13 at 6:30 pm
• Reclaiming the Front Yard: Freedom from Convention - Thursday, February 27 at 6:30 pm
• Back to Class! The Science of Plants and Why it Matters in a Rapidly Changing World - Wednesday, March 12 at 6:30 pm
• Bay-wise Landscapes Designed to Boost Biodiversity - Thursday, March 27 at 6:30 pm
• Creating Magical Outdoor Spaces Where Kids Can Thrive - Wednesday, April 9 at 6:30 pm
• The ABCs and 123s of Creating and Maintaining Living Landscapes - Wednesday, April 23 at 6:30 pm