A Botanical Look at Goldenrods and Asters: Native Plants Workshop

A Botanical Look at Goldenrods and Asters

September is full of beautiful late season blooms, and at Gilsland farm, goldenrods and asters are on full display. Join botany professor Carol Goodwillie and discover the wonders of these goldenrods, asters, and other wildflowers in the Asteraceae family. Get up close and explore the unique traits and characteristics of these plants in the largest plant family and learn some basic botanical anatomy along the way.

Spend a day immersed in native plants, habitat gardening, and creative exploration at Maine Audubon’s Native Plants Education Center. These monthly programs combine hands-on learning with opportunities to connect more deeply with the plants and ecosystems that sustain Maine’s wildlife.

$25 Member/$30 Nonmember

Sign up for both morning and afternoon sessions on the same day and receive $10 off the total cost!

Morning workshops focus on practical seasonal skills such as seed collection, plant propagation, garden maintenance, ecological gardening techniques, and habitat stewardship. During midday open shopping hours, visitors can browse a curated selection of native plants and receive guidance from Maine Audubon staff.

Midday Native Plants Nursery Shopping Opportunity 11 am-1 pm Browse the nursery at Gilsland Farm and ask questions of our Native Plants team! It is the perfect time to purchase plants for the fall planting season!

Afternoon sessions feature nature-inspired art programming designed to foster observation, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

Participants may register for individual workshops or make a day of it by attending multiple sessions. Programs are suitable for gardeners, artists, naturalists, and anyone interested in learning more about Maine native plants and habitats.

Morning Workshops: 9–10:30 am
Native Plant Nursery Open Shopping: 11 am–1 pm
Afternoon Nature Art Workshop: 1:30–4 pm

Prices vary by workshop

Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email events@maineaudubon.org. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date.