Cornell Cooperative Extension

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schenectady County was recently awarded a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for a special project entitled "Teaching Environmental Concepts through Native Plants."  This new project is focusing on the development of five new native plant gardens in Schenectady's Central Park:  a wetland garden, a bird and butterfly garden, an upland meadow, a xeric (low water use) garden, and a tree and shrub garden.  Related activities and education will involved teachers, schoolchildren, 4H youth and leaders, and the general public.  Want to get involved or learn how to grow native plants for your garden?  Attend one of our free, hand-on public programs!

Although the programs are free of charge, please call 382-5150 to register so we can be sure to have enough tools and handouts for everyone.

Agriculture & Horticulture Upcoming Events

Gardens for Wet Places and Damp Spaces
Saturday, June 16, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM.  Cost:  Free

A wetland is a specialized environment where the land meets water.  In this hands-on program, learn how to select and plant beneficial native wetland plants.  Join us as we explore flora and fauna of this unique and threatened ecosystem.

Gardening to Attract Birds and Butterflies
Saturday, July 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM.  Cost:  Free

In this program, we will learn about the many beautiful native plants that provide food, cover and shelter for birds, butterflies and other beneficial wildlife.  Demonstrations and hands-on planting practice will give you the confidence to integrate a bird and butterfly habitat into your own garden.

On the Dry Side - Xeric Gardening
Saturday, August 11, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM.  Cost:  Free

From time to time, all of us face the challenge of dealing with drought-plagued summers or a dry garden location.  Learn about water conservation tips and the many beautiful native plants that will survive and thrive in dry conditions.  In this hands-on program, we will add plants and perform routine summer maintenance in a newly-installed xeric garden.

Planting and Maintaining a Meadow Garden
Saturday, September 8, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM.  Cost:  Free

Become a wildlife-friendly gardener.  In this hands-on program, learn how to create and maintain a meadow garden with native plants beneficial both for wildlife and the environment.  Learn how to design, install and manage your own meadow garden, regardless of site size.

Festival in the Park
October, date to be determined.

Festival in Schenectady's Central Park showcasing the new native plant gardens.

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