What You'll Discover
Have you ever wondered:
- How to identify native plants in your area?
- Which plants are invasive and how to remove them?
- What to plant to support a healthy ecosystem?
Join NeighborSpace this spring for our comprehensive, hands-on course that will transform your understanding of native plants and empower you to make a real difference in your community.
Course Journey
Introduction to Native Plants
Thursday, May 7th | 7:00-8:30 PM Virtual
Learn the fundamentals of native plants, why they matter, and how they support local ecosystems.
Field Experience - Lochearn
Saturday, May 16th | 9:30 AM-12:00 PM In-Person
Hands-on plant identification in the field with expert guidance.
Field Experience - Woodlawn
Saturday, May 30th | 9:30 AM-12:00 PM In-Person
Practice invasive species identification and removal techniques.
Invasive Species Management
Thursday, June 4th | 7:00-8:30 PM Virtual
Deep dive into invasive species control and ecosystem restoration strategies.
Final Field Trip - Choose Your Adventure
Choice 1: Saturday, June 6th, 9:00-11:00 AM (Towson)
Choice 2: Saturday, June 13th, 9:00-11:00 AM (Lochearn)
Apply everything you've learned in a final hands-on experience.
Skills You'll Master
Native Plant Identification
Learn to recognize and identify native plants that thrive in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Understand their seasonal variations and growth patterns.
Invasive Species Management
Discover which plants are invasive to this area, why they're harmful, and effective, sustainable techniques for their removal and control.
Ecosystem Support
Find out which plants to use to support a healthy, thriving ecosystem in your yard, attracting pollinators and beneficial wildlife.
Why Native Plants Matter
Native plants are essential for maintaining biodiversity and supporting local wildlife.
- Provide food and habitat for native birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects
- Require less water and maintenance once established
- Prevent soil erosion and improve water quality
- Support resilient ecosystems against climate change
- Preserve our natural heritage and ecological character
- Create beautiful landscapes year-round
Meet Your Instructors
Expert Name
Native Plant Specialist
Bio about instructor's expertise in native plants and their experience with NeighborSpace programs.
Expert Name
Ecologist
Bio about instructor's background in ecology and invasive species management in Baltimore County.
Expert Name
Environmental Educator
Bio about instructor's experience in environmental education and community outreach.
Course in Action
See what past participants experienced
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What Participants Say
This course completely changed how I view my yard! I've already started replacing invasive plants with native species, and I'm seeing more butterflies and birds than ever before.
The field sessions were incredible! Being able to identify plants in their natural habitat with expert guidance made all the difference. I feel confident now.
I loved that this course was free and accessible to everyone. The instructors were knowledgeable and passionate, making each session engaging and informative.
As a teacher, I was able to bring what I learned back to my classroom. My students are now planting a native garden at our school!
What's Included
Course Handbook
Comprehensive guide to native plants
ID Checklists
Easy reference sheets for field use
Removal Guides
Step-by-step invasive removal
Certificate
Upon course completion
Frequently Asked Questions
Continue Learning
Native Plant Guides
Browse our library of resources about native plants in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
Ready to Get Started?
Join us for Spring 2026 and become a champion for native plants in your community!
Register Now - Deadline April 18thQuestions? Email info@neighborspacebaltimorecounty.org or call 443-377-3760
The Neighbors for Native Plants course is funded by grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability.