Rosedale Nurseries, in Hawthorne, about 20 minutes from Peekskill, will once again be filled with native plants during the weekend of September 6 and 7. From 9 a.m., thousands of trees, shrubs, perennials, grasses, and ferns will be available for the 16th edition of the Native Plant Weekend, an event whose proceeds benefit The Native Plant Center at Westchester Community College.

The event will take place at Rosedale Nurseries for at least eight hours each day. In addition to plant sales, free workshops will be offered, led by onsite specialists covering topics from plant cultivation to garden design. Workshops will be held both days at two times: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

On Saturday, September 6, the day will begin with the lecture Excellent Flowering Shrubs for Your Garden, in which Cathy Ludden will present native species that provide seasonal bloom and ecological value. At 2 p.m., Kim Eierman, founder of EcoBeneficial, will explain how to create a succession of flowering perennials to provide nectar and pollen from spring through fall.

On the morning of Sunday, September 7, naturalist Karalyn Lamb will share her favorite plants to attract butterflies and bees, highlighting species adapted to the Northeast that support the pollinator food chain. In the afternoon, at 2 p.m., landscape designer Dawn Orza will present on native trees and shrubs that provide seasonal color and serve as habitat for local wildlife.

In past editions, the event has been well received by the public. It has been described as an opportunity for plant enthusiasts to learn about the benefits of native species and to incorporate them into their local landscapes. Expert-led horticulture and gardening talks remain one of the most anticipated parts of the gathering.

During the 16th edition of the Native Plant Weekend, volunteers and gardening experts will be available at the nursery to advise attendees on selecting species suitable for their spaces. All purchases made during the event will contribute a percentage to The Native Plant Center, which supports educational and conservation programs in the region.