Garden Club Winter Edition

As winter recedes, early spring offers a critical window for ecological restoration. Thawing soil allows us to remove invasive root systems more effectively, preventing their spread before native plants fully emerge. Many early bloomers—like spring ephemerals—provide essential nutrients for pollinators and wildlife. Our role as stewards and eco-gardeners is to increase biodiversity, which means identifying and removing invasive species that tend to out compete native flora. By participating, volunteers help restore plant communities and strengthen habitat resilience in sites like the Croft Wetland and Wildflower Woods.

What will volunteers do?

Volunteers will focus on the precise removal of invasive plants, targeting woody root systems by digging, pulling and continued cutting. We'll also start hand weeding garlic mustard and and digging up incised fumewort tubers. This work prepares the sites for native plantings to come. Volunteers will also observe and learn to identify early spring flora, deepening their understanding of ecological restoration.

What will volunteers need to bring or wear?

Wear sturdy, weather-appropriate clothing and durable shoes or boots, as the ground may be muddy. Gloves and tools will be provided, but personal gloves or hand tools are welcome. Bring water and dress in layers to adjust to changing spring conditions.