Horticulture Centre of the Pacific

Wreath Making Workshops
2022-11-26 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | Horticulture Centre Of The Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd., Victoria, BC, V9E 2J7, Canada
Registration has opened for our most popular classes at the HCP! Learn how to create beautiful, decorative Christmas wreaths without the hassle of collecting materials and a messy clean up. Expert instructors will guide you through the basics of building a beautiful and unique wreath. No two wreaths turn out the same! These wreaths will last and look great on your front door throughout the festive season and well into the new year. This is a great workshop for friends and families. Participants should bring garden gloves and secateurs/shears to class. Note that masks will be required for these workshops as demonstrations require participants and instructors to stand close together and we will have a full class of 24 participants.This year the workshops will be held in our greenhouses. These workshops fill up quickly so sign up soon.
SOLD OUT!
To go on waitlist please use the link below:
WAITLIST

Wreath Making Workshops
2022-11-26 13:00 - 15:00
Wreath Making Workshops
Registration has opened for our most popular classes at the HCP! Learn how to create beautiful, decorative Christmas wreaths without the hassle of collecting materials and a messy clean up. Expert instructors will guide you through the basics of building a beautiful and unique wreath. No two wreaths turn out the same! These wreaths will last and look great on your front door throughout the festive season and well into the new year. This is a great workshop for friends and families. Participants should bring garden gloves and secateurs/shears to class. Note that masks will be required for these workshops as demonstrations require participants and instructors to stand close together and we will have a full class of 24 participants. This year the workshops will be held in our greenhouses. These workshops fill up quickly so sign up soon.
SOLD OUT!
To go on waitlist please use the link below:
WAITLIST

Gardener's Herbal Gifts Workshop
2022-12-01 10:00 - 12:00
with Sheila Weitman
Create meaningful holiday gifts with horticulture therapist, Sheila Weitman. Whether gifts for yourself or someone you cherish, these herbal treats will offer healing and a sense of calm. Learn to make Calendula Salve, Gardeners Hand Scrub and Chamomile Calming Spray. Everyone will take home a sample of each gift. Everyone will take home a sample of each gift. Please bring a mug along to enjoy a cup of herbal tea.
Sheila's classes are popular and tend to sell out. To get updates on creative classes with Sheila, please join the interest list HERE.
Members $50/Non Members $55
Register ONLINE or call 250 479 6162
Instructor Bio: Sheila Weitman
Sheila has over 3 decades of experience working in the horticulture trade. She completed the Horticulture Technician Certificate from Camosun College in 1991 and from that time has designed, installed
and maintained gardens throughout southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, in private and public settings. Sheila completed Ecological Landscape Design from Gaia College in 2008 which provided a solid foundation for creating ecologically focused landscapes and gardens. Since receiving a certificate in Horticulture Therapy in 2017 Sheila has provided Horticulture Therapy (HT) and Therapeutic Horticulture(TH) to individuals and groups in Long Term Care and Mental Health and Addictions programs. She is a member of the Canadian Horticulture Therapy Association(CHTA) and a volunteer with Feeding Ourselves and Others at Serenity Farm. www.feedingourselvesandothers.com
In 2022, Sheila became a Morning Altars Practitioner after completing Day Schildkret's certificate program which celebrates the melding of nature, art and ritual. https://www.morningaltars.com Through nature based creating Sheila offers us the opportunity to engage in the soothing practice of nature connection.

Kokedama Workshop
2022-12-03 10:00 - 12:00
with Sheila Weitman
Kokedama, an elegant Japanese-style bonsai, literally translates to “moss ball”. Japanese people have been crafting lovely Kokedamas for over 1000 years. The creative adaptability of Kokedama opens to a world ofpossibilities for style and decor. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, Kokedama is a beautiful art form that will connect you with nature in a unique way, offering to nourish all dimensions of your wellness.
Members $45/Non Members $50
Register ONLINE or call 250 479 6162
Instructor Bio: Sheila Weitman
Sheila has over 3 decades of experience working in the horticulture trade. She completed the Horticulture Technician Certificate from Camosun College in 1991 and from that time has designed, installed
and maintained gardens throughout southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, in private and public settings. Sheila completed Ecological Landscape Design from Gaia College in 2008 which provided a solid foundation for creating ecologically focused landscapes and gardens. Since receiving a certificate in Horticulture Therapy in 2017 Sheila has provided Horticulture Therapy (HT) and Therapeutic Horticulture(TH) to individuals and groups in Long Term Care and Mental Health and Addictions programs. She is a member of the Canadian Horticulture Therapy Association(CHTA) and a volunteer with Feeding Ourselves and Others at Serenity Farm. www.feedingourselvesandothers.com
In 2022, Sheila became a Morning Altars Practitioner after completing Day Schildkret's certificate program which celebrates the melding of nature, art and ritual. https://www.morningaltars.com Through nature based creating Sheila offers us the opportunity to engage in the soothing practice of nature connection.

Willow Stars and Hanging Lanterns Workshop
2022-12-04 10:00 - 15:00
Note that masks are required for in-person basketry classes.
Tis the season to make some willow stars and star lanterns! Joan will have willow on hand to make an assortment of decorative stars of various sizes as well as a willow hanging mobile which when strung with fairy lights makes a magical lantern. The shape of the mobile is a dodecahedron which incorporates the star pattern. Many variations within these shapes are possible. They make great gifts and will brighten up your home throughout the winter season.
Tool list: Secateurs, package of small elastic bands, measuring tape.
These workshops are popular, so we recommend that you register soon to avoid disappointment. If the class is full, you will be given the option to sign up for the waitlist during online registration. Those on the waitlist will get the first option to register when we run the class again. If you missed it, the waitlist links are also provided below for you. You can also use them if the date does not work for you, but you would like to be notified when the class runs again.
HCP Members $120 / Non Members $140
Register online below or call 250 479 6162

REGISTRATION LINK
WAITLIST LINK
Instructor Bio: Joan Carrigan
Joan Carrigan is a full time basketmaker and basketry teacher living on Salt Spring Island, BC. Over the past 25 years, her passion for baskets has led her to study, travel and explore many different techniques and materials within the medium. Joan studied Fine Art and Art History at the University of Guelph and her love of history has fueled her research in traditional techniques. Her background in fine art has fueled her enthusiasm for the sculptural and creative potentials that the medium offers. Her inspiration comes from the plant materials she respectfully harvests from nature. Joan's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. Joan teaches extensively both close to home and in Europe and finds this to be a very rewarding aspect of her career.

Plant Identification & Culture
2022-12-10 13:00 - 16:00
This is a monthly class in which participants will be introduced to 25 new plants in each session. Plants are selected for our local growing conditions and the value they bring to the garden. Sadly, Diane Pierce has retired from teaching this class at the end of 2021. The class will now be taught by PHC college instructor and plant expert, Jane Tice. Classes will be in person at the HCP or field trips. If provincial health orders change during COVID, classes may be moved online via Zoom.
Please register ahead of time for field trip classes.
One Saturday per month – 1pm – 4pm.
HCP Members $40.00 per session
Non-Members $50.00 per session
2022 DATES:
To register, call 250 479 6162 or click on a date below.
Note that registration closes the Wednesday prior to class at noon.
December 10

Winter Break Camp
2022-12-19 08:00 - 17:00
We are offering a 3-day camp as the winter break begins and we will be featuring a balance of indoor and outdoor time. The theme is of nature and garden nature crafts suited for gift-giving or sharing with your friends, families and loved ones this winter. This camp is dependent on registration to run.
Days: December 19, 20, 21, 2023
Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Ages: 5 - 12 years (school age)
Fee: $120
Register: HERE

Closed for the Holidays
2022-12-19 08:00 - 2023-01-03 17:00
Wishing everyone a wonderful festive season! We look forward to seeing you again in the new year.

Gardens Re-open
2023-01-04 10:00 - 16:00
The Gardens re-open on January 4th and admission will be by donation for the month of January.

Community Clothing Swap - Donation Drop Off
2023-01-07 10:00 - 14:00
January can be a quiet month for gardeners, but a great time for other community events. Join us for a Community Clothing Swap happening at the HCP.
DONATION DROP OFF - January 7 & 8, 10am - 2pm
COMMUNITY CLOTHING SWAP - January 15, 10am - 3pm
How to Donate:
Donations can be dropped off at the Gardens on the weekend of January 7th & 8th between 10am - 2pm in the classroom which is the small building to the far left hand side of the parking lot as you drive in.
If you are unable to deliver your donation on either of these dates, please respond to this email so we can arrange a different drop off time for you.
Acceptable items for Donation:
Please note that not all items donated may be accepted, please see our donation rules below.
Leftover items after the event will be donated to local thrift stores, including Victoria Women in Need (WIN) and Beacon Community Services.
Donation Rules
Adult clothing, shoes and accessories only
Clean, quality items that are in good shape
A maximum of 20 items per person (please email me if you have more)
Unfortunately we are not accepting underwear and socks
Unfortunately we are not accepting homewares and children's items
We are also looking for the following items to be donated or borrowed.
Please email cheri@hcp.ca if you can help with any of these.
Full length mirrors x 2
Clothing rails
How to Shop:
Admission to the event is by donation and will include admission to the Gardens (suggested donation is $10). Donations will go to cover the cost of the event and to our community education programs.
Guests will receive one credit for each item donated which can be redeemed for one item of clothing at the event. If you run out of credits or did not donate any items, then there will be a charge of $2 per item.
Cash only and bring your own bag.
Other Considerations:
This is a drop-in event between 10am - 3pm. The event may close early if we run out of items.
This is a cash only event and we do not have an ATM on site.
Parking may be limited, so carpooling is recommended.
Please bring your own bag.
Volunteers will be running this event, so please be kind.
Leftover items will be donated to local charity organizations such as WIN or Beacon Community Services.
If you have any questions, please contact me by responding to this message or emailing cheri@hcp.ca

Saanich Seedy Saturday
2023-01-14 10:00 - 14:00

Community Clothing Swap
2023-01-15 10:00 - 15:00
January can be a quiet month for gardeners, but a great time for other community events. Join us for a Community Clothing Swap happening at the HCP.
Please RSVP HERE if you are interested in attending or donating as this will help us with planning the event. If you sign up, you will a reminder email closer to the event.
Details below:
How to Donate:
Donations can be dropped off at the Gardens on the weekend of January 7th & 8th between 10am - 2pm in the classroom which is the small building to the far left hand side of the parking lot as you drive in.
If you are unable to deliver your donation on either of these dates, please respond to this email so we can arrange a different drop off time for you.
Acceptable items for Donation:
Please note that not all items donated may be accepted, please see our donation rules below.
Leftover items after the event will be donated to local thrift stores, including Victoria Women in Need (WIN) and Beacon Community Services.
Donation Rules
Adult clothing, shoes and accessories only
Clean, quality items that are in good shape
A maximum of 20 items per person (please email me if you have more)
Unfortunately we are not accepting underwear and socks
Unfortunately we are not accepting homewares and children's items
We are also looking for the following items to be donated or borrowed.
Please email cheri@hcp.ca if you can help with any of these.
Full length mirrors x 2
Clothing rails
How to Shop:
Admission to the event is by donation and will include admission to the Gardens (suggested donation is $10). Donations will go to cover the cost of the event and to our community education programs.
Guests will receive one credit for each item donated which can be redeemed for one item of clothing at the event. If you run out of credits or did not donate any items, then there will be a charge of $2 per item.
Cash only and bring your own bag.
Other Considerations:
This is a drop-in event between 10am - 3pm. The event may close early if we run out of items.
This is a cash only event and we do not have an ATM on site.
Parking may be limited, so carpooling is recommended.
Please bring your own bag.
Volunteers will be running this event, so please be kind.
Leftover items will be donated to local charity organizations such as WIN or Beacon Community Services.
If you have any questions, please contact me by responding to this message or emailing cheri@hcp.ca

Woven Pouch with Natural Materials Workshop
2023-01-20 09:30 - 16:30
NOTE: MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR IN PERSON WORKSHOPS WITH JOAN CARRIGAN.
Come weave a beautiful individualized small pouch with plant materials harvested from the Pacific Northwest. I use my pouch to hold my cell phone, so make sure you bring yours with you. We will begin with a discussion on how to respectfully harvest materials followed by a hands-on demonstration of how to prepare the materials including cedar bark, willow bark and sedge. Participants can design their pouch using different weave patterns presented which include a variety of plaiting, twining and twill variations. This course is suitable for beginners as well as experienced weavers. Note - Masks are required for in-person classes with Joan.
Tool List: sharp scissors with a fine point, an old towel, spray bottle, 12” ruler.
Fees: HCP Members $120/Non-Members $140
REGISTER ONLINE or call 250 479 6162

Instructor Bio: Joan Carrigan
Joan Carrigan is a full time basketmaker and basketry teacher living on Salt Spring Island, BC. Over the past 25 years, her passion for baskets has led her to study, travel and explore many different techniques and materials within the medium. Joan studied Fine Art and Art History at the University of Guelph and her love of history prompted her research in traditional techniques. Her background in fine art has encouraged her enthusiasm for the sculptural and creative potentials that the medium offers. Her inspiration comes from the plant materials she respectfully harvests from nature. Joan's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. Joan teaches extensively both close to home and in Europe and finds this to be a very rewarding aspect of her career.

If you would like to receive email updates when new basketry classes with Joan open for registration, please sign up to be on our Basketry Enthusiast List below:
Basketry Enthusiast List

Random/Wicker Woven Basket Workshop
2023-01-21 09:30 - 16:30
NOTE: MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR IN PERSON WORKSHOPS WITH JOAN CARRIGAN.
In this workshop we will explore combining two different weaving techniques to create a striking sculptural basket. First, we will start with randomly weaving the base of the basket using dyed reed. This weave is inspired by bird's nests and offers many sculptural possibilities. The top of the basket will be woven with 2 and 3 strand twining and offers many design and shaping possibilities. Note - Masks are required for in-person classes with Joan.
Tool List: Sharp sturdy scissors, an old towel, spray bottle, a piece of cardboard approximately 15” x 15” (or larger)

Fees: HCP Members $120/Non-Members $140
REGISTER ONLINE or call 250 479 6162

Instructor Bio: Joan Carrigan
Joan Carrigan is a full time basketmaker and basketry teacher living on Salt Spring Island, BC. Over the past 25 years, her passion for baskets has led her to study, travel and explore many different techniques and materials within the medium. Joan studied Fine Art and Art History at the University of Guelph and her love of history prompted her research in traditional techniques. Her background in fine art has encouraged her enthusiasm for the sculptural and creative potentials that the medium offers. Her inspiration comes from the plant materials she respectfully harvests from nature. Joan's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. Joan teaches extensively both close to home and in Europe and finds this to be a very rewarding aspect of her career.

If you would like to receive email updates when new basketry classes with Joan open for registration, please sign up to be on our Basketry Enthusiast List below:
Basketry Enthusiast List

New Membership and Admission Rates start Feb 1
2023-02-01 09:00 - 16:00
Admission: new rates
Adults (16+): $16.00
Students and Seniors (60+): $12.00
Children (under 16): Free
HCP Members: Free
Please visit our Membership page to view our new membership rates.

Habitat Series
2023-02-01 09:30 - 11:30
Come explore the different habitats in and around the gardens while connecting to other home learners in your community. Through hands-on activities, games, and crafts, we will discover the many plants and animals that live in neighbouring wetlands, forests, meadows, and of course, a backyard garden! Please note, this is a drop-off program. See you at The Gardens!
Dates: Wednesdays February 1, 8, 15, 22, 2023
Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Ages: 5 - 14 years
Fee: $85
Register ONLINE or call 250 479 6162

Willow Chair Workshop with Andrew Kent
2023-02-04 09:00 - 16:00, 2023-03-04 09:00 - 17:00
Join artisan Andrew Kent from The Willow Way for this full day workshop. In one day, with Andrew Kent's expert instruction, you can make and take home your own Bent Willow Rustic Chair. This is a great introduction to rustic building techniques. Learn how to make a square frame from pieces of alder & work with different sizes of willow to create your chair. This is recommended as it is ideal to have a helper for this class. Registration is for up to 2 participants making one chair together.
HCP Members $285 / Non-Members $305
Register ONLINE or by calling 250 479 6162
Cancellations:
Note that this class required a minimum of 2 registrants in order to run. If the minimum is not met, the class will be canceled or postponed. Please contact communityed@hcp.ca if you would like to cancel your registration. Note that registrations less than one week prior to the class date may not be eligible for a refund if registration minimums are not met.

Instructor Bio: Andrew Kent
The Willow Way's roots go back all the way to 1993 when I made my first willow chair in a workshop with Kate Lawes. Over the next five years, Kate and I opened and ran a store in downtown Nanaimo, attended many large and small shows, and hosted numerous willow furniture workshops. Many of the designs I use are traditional, coming from Kentucky by way of Pemberton, BC. Some are then updated with design ideas suggested by the materials themselves.
I grew up on a rural island and have always felt at home in the woods. A keen mountain biker, I am passionate about the outdoors and Vancouver Island. Many of my days are spent hunting for materials, foraging local species of willow and alder, and finding the best shoots and whips for each piece, which directs the creative construction.
From forest to finished product, the entire willow furniture process is an adventure and ever-evolving, which to me is the real beauty of this work. Most of the materials are natural and not milled, which means not one project is the same and it's always a new experience.
I think people respond to my work because it is more than just your average rustic furniture – it is handmade with materials that are otherwise not utilized. My passion for nature and for the creative process comes through in each piece.
Andrew Kent

Our Nature Connections - Short Series/Drop In Program
2023-02-09 09:30 - 11:30
Every moment in the garden provides opportunities for connections with nature, and the many parts that contribute to its existence and evolution. This program of exploration will allow us to observe plants, both native and invasive species and to learn how they survive/thrive. Discover uses for some and ways to remove others, as we strive to heal the land.
Dates: Thursdays February 9, February 23, March 9, 2023
Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Ages: 5-14 years
Fee: $20/day

ONLINE: Bark Basket Workshop
2023-02-12 09:30 - 16:30
Online via zoom
Note that this is an online workshop via Zoom. Tree barks provide one of nature's most beautiful materials for basket making. This course will begin with a discussion covering how to harvest and prepare local tree barks. A materials kit will be provided which will include willow bark and red cedar bark along with waxed thread for twining. Participants will weave their basket using plaiting, twill and twining techniques. Great for beginners. A materials kit will be provided to each participant which can either be picked up at HCP or posted with shipping cost reimbursed to the instructor.

Fees: HCP Members $120/Non-Members $140
REGISTER ONLINE or call 250 479 6162

Instructor Bio: Joan Carrigan
Joan Carrigan is a full time basketmaker and basketry teacher living on Salt Spring Island, BC. Over the past 25 years, her passion for baskets has led her to study, travel and explore many different techniques and materials within the medium. Joan studied Fine Art and Art History at the University of Guelph and her love of history prompted her research in traditional techniques. Her background in fine art has encouraged her enthusiasm for the sculptural and creative potentials that the medium offers. Her inspiration comes from the plant materials she respectfully harvests from nature. Joan's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. Joan teaches extensively both close to home and in Europe and finds this to be a very rewarding aspect of her career.

If you would like to receive email updates when new basketry classes with Joan open for registration, please sign up to be on our Basketry Enthusiast List below:
Basketry Enthusiast List

Stories in the Garden
2023-02-14 10:00 - 23:00
Imagine a gentle nature walk with your child to calm and inspire you both! This rain or shine outdoor program on our endless pathways provides us with many social and nature connections. This is followed by a story time that encourages the development of listening skills and small group interactions. Plan to bring along your favourite story blanket and snack to enjoy during the story with your child and invite a friend. Pre-registration is required to determine if this program will run.
Dates: Tuesdays, February 14, 21, 28, March 7, 2023
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Age: 3+ (recommended)
Fee: $50/4 sessions (family rate for 1 or more children)
Register: HERE or call 250 479 6162

Family Day at HCP
2023-02-20 09:00 - 15:00
Join our HCP family on Monday, February 20 for activities and exhibits in and around the gardens for a day of celebration! Enjoy the seasonal interest in our many demonstration gardens on a self-guided walk or on a tour. Visit with our local partners and see what they have to share … time to get composting? Improve on your results? Need more information on local environmental initiatives and projects? Why do we want birds in our backyard? How to conduct your own Backyard Bird Count? Check out local vendors at our Family Market! See what fun activities for you to try … Pop Up Workshops by our Youth Programs team, activities and garden adventures to experience. Pack a picnic, visit our canteen, bring your binoculars and join our celebration of families outdoors. Rain or shine, indoors and outdoors this Family Day at HCP!

Gardens Closed Today
2023-02-23 09:00 - 16:00, 2023-02-26 09:00 - 16:00, 2023-02-27 09:00 - 16:00
Due to weather conditions. Please come again soon!

Fairy Garden Workshop
2023-02-25 10:00 - 11:30
Join us for some fun and creative time as we enter the world of fairy garden making! Your child will be introduced to garden design as we visit various gardens looking for inspiration, collecting items in nature to create furnishings with. and followed by a hands-on lesson to make their own garden to take home. These miniature gardens offer hours of play potential for children of all ages. This workshop will include an indoor garden version suited to keeping in a child's room. Plant care, planting techniques, and furnishing making will all be featured. Consider signing up with your child and making one of your own!
Date: Saturday, February 25, 2023
Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
Age: 4+ years (6 and under must be accompanied by a parent)
Fee: $30/child, $25/accompany adult
Register: HERE or call 250 479 6162

Starting Veggies from Seed Workshop
2023-03-03 10:00 - 12:00
with Linda Petite
Learn the basics of starting your veggies from seed with Linda Petite, HCP Head Gardener. Starting seeds indoors is a rewarding and effective way to get a head start in your garden. Many seeds germinate quickly and reliably without anything more than moisture and light. Linda will discuss the timing and techniques for starting seeds. Each participant will seed a 6 pack tray of seeds to take home with them.
HCP Members $30/Non-Members $40
Register ONLINE or call 250 479 6162

Instructor Bio: Linda Petite
Linda is the Head Gardener at the Gardens at HCP. Prior to HCP, Linda worked in a Garden Center/Landscape company for 25 years in Antigonish, NS before heading west to Victoria; Community Education classes at HCP; plant and garden presentations to local garden clubs and community groups. Areas of interest include growing vegetables, cactus and succulents, propagation, hydrangeas, and wreath making.

Seed Starting for Kids
2023-03-04 10:00 - 11:30
Seeds are an easy, inexpensive and fun way to grow plants for food and flower production. This hands-on workshop provides a step-by-step approach to sowing into trays. These seed starting basics are skills that create confidence to grow healthy plants that can be used in containers or garden beds. Each child will plant up a tray to take home to grow their own flowers and edible plants.
Date: Saturday, March 4, 2023
Time:10:00 am - 11:30 am
Age: 5+ years
Fee: $30/participant
Registation: ONLINE or by phone 250 479 6162

Growing Together for Families - (3 part series)
2023-03-04 13:30 - 15:30
Have you thought about growing your own food crops, but are overwhelmed? Let's work together in the HCP Kids Teaching Garden and transform an area into a garden plot. Learn about soils, productive garden planning, maximizing yields, managing pests, seeds and starts as well as seed saving. Join us along with your family for this 3 part workshop to build skills and understanding to make your own food production possible. This workshop series is also a great way to improve your garden experience. Bring along your own garden gloves.
Date: March 4, 11, and April 8, 2023
Time: 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Age: All welcome!
Fee: $125/family
Registration: ONLINE or by phone 250 479 6162

Introduction to Mason Beekeeping
2023-03-05 13:00 - 15:00
with Emony Nicholls
In this bee-loving workshop we will explore the importance of our native bees' incredible pollinating powers to our local ecosystems and agricultural systems. We will look at the lifecycle of the mason bee, the challenges they face and how best to support them through plants and nesting boxes. Discussing the seasonal responsibilities of the mason bee keeper, when and how to release them and what to watch for over the summer season will also be covered.
And finally, we will also look at the different styles of mason bee nesting boxes or houses available, how to select the best one and where to place them in the garden to meet yours and the bee's needs. Come and learn how to support these tiny, important and beautiful little creatures!
HCP Members $30/Non-Members $40
Register ONLINE or call 250 479 6162
Instructor Bio: Emony Nicholls
Emony has worked as a biologist, an environmental consultant, entrepreneur and civil servant for the last 25 years. For seven of those years, she owned and operated a native plant nursery in Ontario designing and providing plants for ecological restoration projects. Her graduate research was on the relationship between pollinators and plants and how it drives their evolutions. As part of this work, she did taxonomic identification of the native pollinators and fell in love with their diversity, abilities and individual beauty. She is now on a mission to educate others about them in the hopes that they will fall in love - and support them too! She recently left the provincial government as a biologist and now lives on Salt Spring Island doing more native bee education and starting her own business again bringing her love of native plants and native pollinators together!
